There was a time (think early- to mid-twentieth century) when chicken was considered a Sunday-only meal, replete with mashed potatoes, a green veggie, and dessert.
Now, it's an anytime meal, with fast food restaurants dealing with chicken, and chicken recipes left and right.
That said, here are six yummy chicken recipes to try any time at all, including Light Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas, Mini Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, and a yummy Chicken Pot Pie. Enjoy!
CHICKEN PICCATA
This is from Ali Slagle at The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Ali wrote, "Chicken piccata is an Italian-American staple beloved for its piquant flavors cradled in a silky, butter-rich pan sauce. It also doesn’t hurt that it cooks up very quickly. This version is mostly traditional except that it uses lemon two ways, calling for lemon slices to be caramelized (to soften their tang) and for a hit of fresh juice at the end (to brighten the whole dish). This ensures a sauce that's neither too rich, nor too puckery. Serve with a starch — pasta, polenta, rice or white beans — for sopping up the sauce, and a green vegetable."
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 25 minutes
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019883-chicken-piccata.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds), halved horizontally (see tip)
Kosher salt and black pepper
All-purpose flour, for dredging
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
1 shallot, peeled and sliced lengthwise
1 lemon, halved (half thinly sliced and seeds removed; half juiced, about 2 tablespoons)
3/4 cup chicken stock
4 teaspoons drained capers
Coarsely chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour and shake off any excess.
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons butter and the olive oil over medium-high heat until the butter has melted. Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken, place on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces, adding more olive oil if needed.
Once the chicken is cooked, add the shallot and lemon slices to the pan and sauté, stirring occasionally, until lightly caramelized and fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the stock and simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons butter, capers and lemon juice, to taste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chicken with the sauce poured over the top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Tip
Freezing the chicken breasts for 15 minutes will make slicing them through the middle easier.
MINI HAWAIIAN CHICKEN SKEWERS
This is from Ree Drummond, from the Food Network.
Active Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Yield: 30 skewers (15 servings); Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/mini-hawaiian-chicken-skewers-7164260.
Ingredients
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (the thick variety)
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1/2 lime
Kosher salt
4 green onions, sliced
1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-size chunks
2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks the size of the chicken and pineapple
One 20-ounce can pineapple chunks, drained
Freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil, for the grill pan
Directions
Special equipment: wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 1 hour
Add the teriyaki sauce to a bowl and stir in the ginger, brown sugar, crushed red pepper, garlic, lime juice, a pinch of salt and half of the green onions; set aside.
Using wooden skewers that have been soaked in water for at least an hour, assemble your skewers. Start with a piece of chicken, then add a piece of bell pepper and a piece pineapple, then repeat until you 2 pieces of each on the skewer. Continue with the remaining ingredients for a total of 30 skewers. Season the skewers with salt and pepper and brush them with the marinade on one side.
Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Arrange the skewers on the grill sauce-side down (in batches if necessary) and grill for 3 minutes. While the skewers are cooking, brush the tops with the remaining marinade. After 3 minutes, flip and cook the other side for an additional 3 minutes. Remove to a serving platter and garnish with the remaining green onions.
TOMATO-ROSEMARY CHICKEN
Recipe Yield: Servings: 12
Source: Family Circle: All-time Favorite Recipes
Book Title: Family Circle: All-time Favorite Recipes
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/tomato-rosemary-chicken.
Ingredients
12 Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 pounds total)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
2 tbsp butter (or margarine)
5 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 pound proscuitto, chopped
1/3 cup dry white wine
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or 1 tsp dried, crumbled
12 plum tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup chicken broth
Directions
Season both sides of chicken breast halves with salt and pepper. Place flour on a sheet of waxed paper. Turn chicken in flour to coat both sides; shake off any excess and place chicken on another piece of waxed paper.
Heat oven to 375F.
Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 6 chicken breast halves and saute until lightly browned, about 3 minutes per side. Place chicken in a 15x10x1-inch jelly-roll pan in a single layer, filling half of pan. Repeat with remaining oil, butter, and chicken.
Bake chicken in heated 375F oven for 20 minutes or until internal temperature registers 170F on an instant-read thermometer.
Meanwhile, add garlic and proscuitto to skillet; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 3 minutes. Add wine and rosemary; cook 2 minutes, stirring up any browned bits from bottom of skillet.
Add tomatoes and broth. Bring to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer 10 minutes.
Place chicken on a serving platter; pour sauce over top. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 257; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 377 mg; Cholesterol: 89 mg; Protein: 34 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Low-Fat Meat; 1 Vegetable
APPLE PECAN CHICKEN SALAD
This is from Linda Larsen, who wrote for About.com and The Spruce Eats. Linda wrote, "Apple pecan chicken salad is a fan-favorite main dish salad recipe. The combination of tender chicken, crisp pecans, tart apples, and a creamy honey mustard dressing is fantastic.
"Like all chicken salads, using a rotisserie chicken often brings the best results. Most other chicken cooking methods do not come close to matching the tender result of these grocery store birds. There is just something about roasting chickens while on a spit that results in the most tender and flavorful meat. Remove the meat from the bird and cut it into large chunks.
"You can double or triple this recipe if you would like. When hot summer weather is at hand, there's nothing nicer than having a huge batch of fabulous apple pecan chicken salad in the fridge, ready and waiting for you. Just add some bakery muffins or breadsticks, some iced tea or white wine, and you have a fabulous meal with absolutely no cooking at all."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Yield: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/apple-pecan-chicken-salad-481444.
Ingredients
1/2 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons honey mustard
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
3 cups cooked chicken (chopped)
1 Granny Smith apple (chopped)
1 cup small pecans
1/2 cup dried cherries or cranberries
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey mustard, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
Stir in the cooked chicken, the chopped apple, pecans, and dried cherries or cranberries to coat.
Cover and chill the salad for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Enjoy!
Tips
Store any leftovers of the salad, well covered, in the refrigerator for up to three days.
You can cook your own chicken for this apple pecan chicken salad recipe. Try baking chicken breasts, on the bone or off, in parchment paper, or simmer them gently in water until they just reach 160 F. When the meat stands after cooking, the temperature will rise to 165 F, which is the safe final temperature for chicken breasts.
Or try cooking a whole chicken on a rotisserie on your grill; you need special equipment and instructions for that task. You can cook large batches of chicken this way, let the meat cool, cube it, then store it in the freezer in 2 cup portions for recipes like this one.
LIGHT SOUR CREAM CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
Recipe Yield: Servings: 6 (2 Enchiladas each)
Source: Cooking Healthy and Fast
Book Title: Cooking Healthy and Fast
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/light-sour-cream-chicken-enchiladas.
Ingredients
1 (8oz) container light sour cream
1 (8oz) container nonfat plain yogurt
1 (10-3/4oz) can cream of chicken soup with 1/3 less salt
1 (4oz) can diced green chilies
12 (6-7 inch) white corn or flour tortillas
1 Cup (4oz) shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese
1-1/2 Cups chopped cooked chicken
1/4 Cup sliced green onions
Directions
Heat oven to 350F degrees. Spray a 13x9-inch (3 Qt) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In med. bowl, combine sour cream, yogurt, soup and chilies; mix well. Spoon bout 3 Tbsp sour cream mixture down center of each tortilla. Reserve 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese; sprinkle each tortilla with remaining cheese, chicken and onions. Roll tortillas and place in spray-coated dish, seam side down. Spoon remaining sour cream mixture over tortillas. Cover with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Remove foil; sprinkle with reserved 1/4 cup cheese. Return to oven & bake, uncovered, an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Garnish with shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes, if desired.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 358; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 590 mg; Cholesterol: 63 mg; Carbohydrates: 35 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat, 2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Milk, 1 Fat
CHICKEN POT PIE
This comes from Robbie Rice on the AllRecipes website. Robbie wrote, "A delicious chicken pie made from scratch with carrots, peas and celery."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Servings: 8; Yield: 1 9-inch pie
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/26317/chicken-pot-pie-ix/.
Ingredients
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cubed
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup frozen green peas
1/2 cup sliced celery
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon celery seed
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
2/3 cup milk
2 (9 inch) unbaked pie crusts
Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
In a saucepan, combine chicken, carrots, peas, and celery. Add water to cover and boil for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, drain and set aside.
In the saucepan over medium heat, cook onions in butter until soft and translucent. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Slowly stir in chicken broth and milk. Simmer over medium-low heat until thick. Remove from heat and set aside.
Place the chicken mixture in bottom pie crust. Pour hot liquid mixture over. Cover with top crust, seal edges, and cut away excess dough. Make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Confessions of a Foodie
Wednesday, September 30, 2020
Tuesday, September 29, 2020
Desserts - Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Today's double post deals with desserts (because who couldn't use an occasional yummy dessert?). Today's offerings include English Toffee Bars and Banana-Strawberry Sorbet. Enjoy!
HUMMINGBIRD CAKE WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
This comes from Diana Rattray, the Southern cuisine writer on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, "This hummingbird cake is always a hit with families or for any celebration. It's a moist cake flavored with cinnamon, pineapple, pecans, and bananas and topped with a cream cheese frosting.
"The cake originated in Jamaica in the 1960s and was part of an Air Jamaica tourism campaign. It was named the "doctor bird cake," after the national bird of Jamaica. The doctor bird is a member of the hummingbird family. You'll enjoy a little tropical vacation with a cake you can make anywhere and anytime. Wouldn't it be perfect at a bon voyage party for friends who are going on a Caribbean cruise?"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 1 cake (16 servings)
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/classic-hummingbird-cake-recipe-3051129.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 eggs (beaten)
1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple (well-drained)
1 cup pecans (chopped)
2 cups banana ( firm ripe, chopped)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1 cup butter (room temperature)
2 pounds confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 to 1 cup pecans (chopped, toasted, if desired)
Directions
Note: while there are multiple steps to this recipe, this hummingbird cake is broken down into workable categories to help you better plan for preparation and baking.
Make the Cake
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat oven to 350 F. Generously grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Sift the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon together into a large mixing bowl several times.
Add the eggs and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until ingredients are moistened.
Stir in vanilla, drained pineapple, and 1 cup pecans.
Stir in the chopped bananas.
Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pans.
Bake the layers in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick or cake tester inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn them onto cooling racks. Cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting and Assemble
Gather the ingredients.
To make the frosting, combine the cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer; beat until smooth and creamy.
Add the confectioners' sugar and beat on low speed until combined.
Increase the speed to medium-high and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Stir in vanilla.
Frost the tops of all three layers of the cake and then stack them.
Frost the sides of the cake.
Sprinkle the top of the cake evenly with the 1/2 to 1 cup chopped pecans.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Tip
To toast the pecans, spread them in a dry skillet over medium heat; cook while continually stirring until the nuts are lightly browned and aromatic. Remove to a plate at once to stop the cooking process.
BLUEBERRY BANANA CAKE
This comes from Carroll Pellegrinelli, who wrote for The Spruce Eats. Carroll wrote, "Whether you overbought at the farm stand or your fruit is ripening quicker than you can eat it, this blueberry banana cake is the perfect way to use up the produce and enjoy something sweet. What is great about this recipe is that there are more bananas and blueberries in the batter than flour and sugar, which makes it not only extra fruity and delicious, but also a healthy breakfast, dessert, or snack.
"This cake was made in a cathedral bundt cake pan, but you can use any bundt, cake, or loaf pan."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Yield: 16 slices (16 servings)
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup sugar
3 large eggs (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 bananas (very ripe, mashed)
1 cup blueberries (rinsed and dried)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease and flour the cake pan.
Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl with a wire whisk. Set aside.
Cream together the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla. Beat until well combined.
Add the butter mixture to the flour mixture. Combine until just mixed.
Fold in the bananas and blueberries.
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 50 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.
Tips
This recipe is somewhat simple, but there are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure your banana blueberry cake is a success:
First, it is important that the butter and eggs be at room temperature so they both mix into the batter uniformly.
You also want to make sure that the bananas are nice and ripe; the goal is to have them blend into the batter versus remain in chunks. Bananas with almost black skins are ideal.
To achieve the creamiest texture, mash the ripe bananas with a mixer until they are a thick puree. You can use frozen bananas as well, just remember to thaw first.
When it comes to the blueberries, you need completely dry them before adding to the batter. Introducing water to the batter will result in a soggy cake.
This recipe can be baked in a bundt pan, loaf pan, or muffin tins. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times (muffins will take about half the time).
Recipe Variations
Whether you add or sub out ingredients in this cake, there are a few twists on this recipe that are sure to please. If your family is a fan of nuts, adding walnuts to the batter—or sprinkled on top—brings a nice crunch to the cake.
And, chances are, the kids won't object to a few chocolate chips.
You can elevate the cake by layering on a streusel topping before baking, which will create a sweet, crispy outer crust.
SOUR CREAM BANANA BARS
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cup Sugar
1 cup Sour cream
1/2 cup Butter, softened
2 Eggs
1 1/2 cup Bananas, mashed, 3 large
2 tsp Vanilla
2 cup Flour
1 tsp Baking soda
1/2 cup Nuts, chopped
Directions
Mix sugar, sour cream, butter and eggs in large mixing bowl on low speed, scraping bowl occasionally, about 1 minute. Beat in banana and vanilla on low speed, 30 seconds. Beat in flour and baking soda on medium speed, scraping bowl occasionally, 1 minute. Stir in nuts. Spread dough in greased and floured jelly roll pan. Bake 20 to 25 minutes in preheated 375F oven. When cool, frost with Cream Cheese Frosting. Cut into bars.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat 3 oz pkg cream cheese, 1/3 cup butter, 1 T milk and 1 tsp vanilla until creamy. Stir in 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth.
BANANA-STRAWBERRY SORBET
This also comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 1/2 cups frozen (unsweetened) strawberries
1/2 cups apple juice
Directions
Cut the bananas into quarter-inch slices, coat with the lemon juice, place on a cookie sheet, and freeze.
After the bananas are frozen, puree them with the remaining ingredients in the appliance of your choice (my cuisinart had to work pretty hard, but it was very entertaining for the son to watch strawberries become sorbet.)
Serve immediately in chilled cups. Leftovers don't freeze well, but they make a nice flavoring for homemade yogurt.
Lots of substitutions are possible.
PEANUT BUTTER PIE
This is from Samantha Seneviratne at The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Samantha wrote, "Dead simple to make, this pie hits all the right notes. Sweet, nutty peanut butter mellows next to the tang of rich cream cheese and gets a lift from a little whipped cream. But if that doesn’t convince you, the chocolate cookie crust may. This version relies on five ingredients, instead of pre-made cookies, with the cocoa giving it a deep chocolate flavor. The crust is pressed into a well-buttered pie plate, baked, then cooled, ready to be filled and chilled. When it's time to serve, you have options: Finish it with a decorative chocolate topping or a puff of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkling of cocoa powder."
Yield: 8 to 10 servings; Time: 50 minutes, plus chilling
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018635-peanut-butter-pie.
Note: While you're at it, check out "How to Make a Pie Crust", a guide by Melissa Clark. It's very helpful, and you're bound to find some useful info in it.
Ingredients
For the crust:
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for the pan
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For the filling:
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cup smooth, sweetened peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy
1 8-ounce block full-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
2/3 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
Preparation
Make the crust: Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Have a nonstick standard 9-inch pie plate ready, or generously butter a 9-inch standard pie plate. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, flour and salt. Add butter, stirring and mashing with a fork, until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Transfer the crumbs to the prepared pan and press them evenly into the bottom and sides until crust is about 1/4-inch thick. Bake crust until it looks dry and set, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer the pan to a rack to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, whip the cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer at medium-high speed. Set aside. In another large bowl, beat the peanut butter, cream cheese, brown sugar, vanilla and salt on medium speed until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Use a large rubber spatula to gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and smooth the top. Chill uncovered for at least 4 to 6 hours, until filling is set.
Make the topping, if using: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and the butter together in short bursts, stirring often. Transfer the chocolate mixture to a small plastic bag, and cut a 1/8-inch hole in one corner. Drizzle the chocolate over the top to make a decorative pattern. (You may have some left over depending on your taste.) Serve immediately.
ENGLISH TOFFEE BARS
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Yield: about 3 dozen bars depending on size.
Ingredients
2 cups all purpose flour
1 1/3 cups packed light brown sugar, divided
1/2 cup plus 2/3 cup cold butter, divided
1 cup pecan halves
1 cup milk chocolate chips
Directions
Heat oven to 350 F. Combine flour and 1 cup brown sugar in a large mixer bowl. With a pastry blender or fork, cut in 1/2 cup butter until fine crumbs form. A few large crumbs may remain - it is okay. Press the mixture onto the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecans over the crust. Set aside. Combine remaining 1/3 cup brown sugar and 2/3 cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, then immediately pour over pecans and the crust. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from oven. Immediately sprinkle the milk chocolate chips evenly over the hot surface. Press gently onto surface. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars.
HUMMINGBIRD CAKE WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
This comes from Diana Rattray, the Southern cuisine writer on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, "This hummingbird cake is always a hit with families or for any celebration. It's a moist cake flavored with cinnamon, pineapple, pecans, and bananas and topped with a cream cheese frosting.
"The cake originated in Jamaica in the 1960s and was part of an Air Jamaica tourism campaign. It was named the "doctor bird cake," after the national bird of Jamaica. The doctor bird is a member of the hummingbird family. You'll enjoy a little tropical vacation with a cake you can make anywhere and anytime. Wouldn't it be perfect at a bon voyage party for friends who are going on a Caribbean cruise?"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 1 cake (16 servings)
To view this online, go to https://www.thespruceeats.com/classic-hummingbird-cake-recipe-3051129.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 eggs (beaten)
1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple (well-drained)
1 cup pecans (chopped)
2 cups banana ( firm ripe, chopped)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1 cup butter (room temperature)
2 pounds confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 to 1 cup pecans (chopped, toasted, if desired)
Directions
Note: while there are multiple steps to this recipe, this hummingbird cake is broken down into workable categories to help you better plan for preparation and baking.
Make the Cake
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat oven to 350 F. Generously grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Sift the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon together into a large mixing bowl several times.
Add the eggs and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until ingredients are moistened.
Stir in vanilla, drained pineapple, and 1 cup pecans.
Stir in the chopped bananas.
Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pans.
Bake the layers in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick or cake tester inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn them onto cooling racks. Cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting and Assemble
Gather the ingredients.
To make the frosting, combine the cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer; beat until smooth and creamy.
Add the confectioners' sugar and beat on low speed until combined.
Increase the speed to medium-high and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Stir in vanilla.
Frost the tops of all three layers of the cake and then stack them.
Frost the sides of the cake.
Sprinkle the top of the cake evenly with the 1/2 to 1 cup chopped pecans.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Tip
To toast the pecans, spread them in a dry skillet over medium heat; cook while continually stirring until the nuts are lightly browned and aromatic. Remove to a plate at once to stop the cooking process.
BLUEBERRY BANANA CAKE
This comes from Carroll Pellegrinelli, who wrote for The Spruce Eats. Carroll wrote, "Whether you overbought at the farm stand or your fruit is ripening quicker than you can eat it, this blueberry banana cake is the perfect way to use up the produce and enjoy something sweet. What is great about this recipe is that there are more bananas and blueberries in the batter than flour and sugar, which makes it not only extra fruity and delicious, but also a healthy breakfast, dessert, or snack.
"This cake was made in a cathedral bundt cake pan, but you can use any bundt, cake, or loaf pan."
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Yield: 16 slices (16 servings)
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup sugar
3 large eggs (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 bananas (very ripe, mashed)
1 cup blueberries (rinsed and dried)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease and flour the cake pan.
Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl with a wire whisk. Set aside.
Cream together the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla. Beat until well combined.
Add the butter mixture to the flour mixture. Combine until just mixed.
Fold in the bananas and blueberries.
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 50 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.
Tips
This recipe is somewhat simple, but there are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure your banana blueberry cake is a success:
First, it is important that the butter and eggs be at room temperature so they both mix into the batter uniformly.
You also want to make sure that the bananas are nice and ripe; the goal is to have them blend into the batter versus remain in chunks. Bananas with almost black skins are ideal.
To achieve the creamiest texture, mash the ripe bananas with a mixer until they are a thick puree. You can use frozen bananas as well, just remember to thaw first.
When it comes to the blueberries, you need completely dry them before adding to the batter. Introducing water to the batter will result in a soggy cake.
This recipe can be baked in a bundt pan, loaf pan, or muffin tins. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times (muffins will take about half the time).
Recipe Variations
Whether you add or sub out ingredients in this cake, there are a few twists on this recipe that are sure to please. If your family is a fan of nuts, adding walnuts to the batter—or sprinkled on top—brings a nice crunch to the cake.
And, chances are, the kids won't object to a few chocolate chips.
You can elevate the cake by layering on a streusel topping before baking, which will create a sweet, crispy outer crust.
SOUR CREAM BANANA BARS
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cup Sugar
1 cup Sour cream
1/2 cup Butter, softened
2 Eggs
1 1/2 cup Bananas, mashed, 3 large
2 tsp Vanilla
2 cup Flour
1 tsp Baking soda
1/2 cup Nuts, chopped
Directions
Mix sugar, sour cream, butter and eggs in large mixing bowl on low speed, scraping bowl occasionally, about 1 minute. Beat in banana and vanilla on low speed, 30 seconds. Beat in flour and baking soda on medium speed, scraping bowl occasionally, 1 minute. Stir in nuts. Spread dough in greased and floured jelly roll pan. Bake 20 to 25 minutes in preheated 375F oven. When cool, frost with Cream Cheese Frosting. Cut into bars.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat 3 oz pkg cream cheese, 1/3 cup butter, 1 T milk and 1 tsp vanilla until creamy. Stir in 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth.
BANANA-STRAWBERRY SORBET
This also comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 1/2 cups frozen (unsweetened) strawberries
1/2 cups apple juice
Directions
Cut the bananas into quarter-inch slices, coat with the lemon juice, place on a cookie sheet, and freeze.
After the bananas are frozen, puree them with the remaining ingredients in the appliance of your choice (my cuisinart had to work pretty hard, but it was very entertaining for the son to watch strawberries become sorbet.)
Serve immediately in chilled cups. Leftovers don't freeze well, but they make a nice flavoring for homemade yogurt.
Lots of substitutions are possible.
PEANUT BUTTER PIE
This is from Samantha Seneviratne at The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Samantha wrote, "Dead simple to make, this pie hits all the right notes. Sweet, nutty peanut butter mellows next to the tang of rich cream cheese and gets a lift from a little whipped cream. But if that doesn’t convince you, the chocolate cookie crust may. This version relies on five ingredients, instead of pre-made cookies, with the cocoa giving it a deep chocolate flavor. The crust is pressed into a well-buttered pie plate, baked, then cooled, ready to be filled and chilled. When it's time to serve, you have options: Finish it with a decorative chocolate topping or a puff of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkling of cocoa powder."
Yield: 8 to 10 servings; Time: 50 minutes, plus chilling
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1018635-peanut-butter-pie.
Note: While you're at it, check out "How to Make a Pie Crust", a guide by Melissa Clark. It's very helpful, and you're bound to find some useful info in it.
Ingredients
For the crust:
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for the pan
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For the filling:
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cup smooth, sweetened peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy
1 8-ounce block full-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
2/3 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
Preparation
Make the crust: Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Have a nonstick standard 9-inch pie plate ready, or generously butter a 9-inch standard pie plate. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, flour and salt. Add butter, stirring and mashing with a fork, until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Transfer the crumbs to the prepared pan and press them evenly into the bottom and sides until crust is about 1/4-inch thick. Bake crust until it looks dry and set, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer the pan to a rack to cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, whip the cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer at medium-high speed. Set aside. In another large bowl, beat the peanut butter, cream cheese, brown sugar, vanilla and salt on medium speed until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Use a large rubber spatula to gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and smooth the top. Chill uncovered for at least 4 to 6 hours, until filling is set.
Make the topping, if using: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and the butter together in short bursts, stirring often. Transfer the chocolate mixture to a small plastic bag, and cut a 1/8-inch hole in one corner. Drizzle the chocolate over the top to make a decorative pattern. (You may have some left over depending on your taste.) Serve immediately.
ENGLISH TOFFEE BARS
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Yield: about 3 dozen bars depending on size.
Ingredients
2 cups all purpose flour
1 1/3 cups packed light brown sugar, divided
1/2 cup plus 2/3 cup cold butter, divided
1 cup pecan halves
1 cup milk chocolate chips
Directions
Heat oven to 350 F. Combine flour and 1 cup brown sugar in a large mixer bowl. With a pastry blender or fork, cut in 1/2 cup butter until fine crumbs form. A few large crumbs may remain - it is okay. Press the mixture onto the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecans over the crust. Set aside. Combine remaining 1/3 cup brown sugar and 2/3 cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, then immediately pour over pecans and the crust. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from oven. Immediately sprinkle the milk chocolate chips evenly over the hot surface. Press gently onto surface. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars.
Taco Tuesday
If it's Tuesday (and my calendar indicates that it is), it's time for another Taco Tuesday. Today's yummy offerings include Southwest Chipotle Fish Tacos and Chicken Nacho Tacos. Enjoy!
BLT RANCH QUESADILLAS
This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Now you can enjoy your favorite BLT sandwich as a quesadilla! The Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce makes this one extra delicious!"
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/blt-ranch-quesadillas.
Ingredients
4 Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas for burritos, 8 inch (from 11-oz package)
1 1/3 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
3/4 cup chopped baby spinach
1/3 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce
Directions
On one half of each tortilla, spread 1/3 cup cheese, 2 tablespoons bacon and 2 tablespoons spinach; fold tortilla over filling.
Heat 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Place 2 quesadillas in skillet at a time. Cook 2 to 4 minutes, turning once, until tortilla is golden brown and crisp and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining quesadillas.
Top quesadillas with remaining spinach and tomato; drizzle with sauce. To serve, cut into wedges.
Expert Tips
Use fresh pico de gallo in place of tomato to add a bit of additional flavor and heat.
After cooking each quesadilla, cover it to keep it warm while you cook the remaining quesadillas. When cooking second batch of quesadillas, watch tortillas carefully since skillet will already be hot.
Cheddar and Mexican 4 cheese are great substitutes for the Monterey Jack.
Serve the sauce alongside the quesadillas for dipping rather than drizzling on top, if desired.
Nutrition: 4 servings (1 quesadilla each); 1 Serving Calories 340 (Calories from Fat 180); Total Fat 20g (Saturated Fat 10g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 50mg; Sodium 740mg; Total Carbohydrate 27g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 2g); Protein 14g; % Daily Value: Vitamin A 15%; Vitamin C 4%; Calcium 30%; Iron 10%; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Vegetable, 1 High-Fat Meat, 2 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 2
MEXICAN CHICKEN COBB TACOS
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "The classic cobb salad gets a Mexican twist in this easy-to-assemble taco. Taco seasoned shredded rotisserie chicken layered on a bed of chopped romaine lettuce and topped with shredded Mexican style 4 cheese blend, chopped avocado, bacon and tomatoes."
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/mexican-chicken-cobb-tacos.
Ingredient
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 1/2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken
1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ Chicken Taco Seasoning Mix
1/4 cup water
2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (4 oz)
1 package (8 count) Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package
1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and coarsely chopped
4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (1/2 cup)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce
Lime wedges, if desired
Preparation
In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken, taco seasoning mix and water; cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is heated through. Remove from heat.
Divide romaine lettuce, chicken mixture and cheese among heated tortilla bowls.
Top each bowl with avocado, bacon and tomatoes. Serve with ranch sauce and lime wedges.
Expert Tips
Ranch dressing can be used instead of Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce.
To dice avocado, cut in half, and remove pit. Using large spoon, scoop flesh from skin. Place one half avocado cut side down on cutting board. Make two horizontal cuts to make three planks, then cut lengthwise into strips. Turn 90 degrees, and cut again. Repeat with other half of avocado.
SOUTHWEST CHIPOTLE FISH TACOS
This also comes from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/southwest-chipotle-fish-tacos/.
Ingredients
8 frozen fish fillets
1/2 pound coleslaw or shredded cabbage
1/4 cup Hidden Valley® Spicy Ranch Dressing
8 corn tortillas
1 cup salsa
Directions
Prepare fish fillets according to package directions.
In a medium bowl, toss coleslaw and dressing until well-combined.
Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.
To assemble, place 1 fish fillet on each tortilla, top with coleslaw and salsa. Serve immediately.
Notes: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.
For dips, make and enjoy your dip creation. Then, refrigerate within 2 hours or discard.
LIME CHICKEN TACOS
This comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Tracy Gunter (of Boise, Idaho), "Our fun, simple chicken taco recipe is perfect for a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad."
Prep: 10 minutes; Cook: 5 1/2 hours; Makes: 6 servings
View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/lime-chicken-tacos/.
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves
3 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 cup chunky salsa
12 fat-free flour tortillas (6 inches), warmed
Optional: Sour cream, pickled onions, shredded lettuce and shredded cheddar or Cotija cheese
Directions
Place chicken in a 3-qt. slow cooker. Combine lime juice and chili powder; pour over chicken. Cook, covered, on low until chicken is tender, 5-6 hours.
Remove chicken. When cool enough to handle, shred meat with 2 forks; return to slow cooker. Stir in corn and salsa. Cook, covered, on low until heated through, about 30 minutes. Place filling on tortillas; if desired, serve with sour cream, pickled onions, lettuce and cheese.
b>VEGGIE TACOS WITH AVOCADO TOMATILLO SALSA
This is from Jeanine & Jack at Love & Lemons. The recipe starts off, “I know – another taco recipe already? Well, I like tacos. I’m sure you do too because you are here after all.”
Prep time: 10 mins; Cook time: 30 mins; Total time: 40 mins; Serves: serves 2-3
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 small Japanese eggplant, chopped into 1-inch pieces
1 cup chopped summer squash (yellow, pattypan, or zucchini)
1 red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil
6 corn or flour tortillas
1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 avocado, diced
handful of cilantro
1 serrano pepper, sliced (optional)
crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Avocado Tomatillo Sauce:
1/3 cup store-bought or homemade tomatillo salsa
1/4 cup pepitas
1/2 avocado
handful of spinach
2 tbsp olive oil
squeezes of lime, to taste
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chopped eggplant, squash, red pepper and tomatoes onto the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and pinches of salt and pepper and roast until golden brown around the edges 25-30 minutes.
Meanwhile, make your sauce. In a food processor, blend together the tomatillo salsa, pepitas, avocado, spinach, olive oil, lime juice and pinches of salt and pepper, to taste. Chill until ready to use.
Assemble the tacos with the black beans, roasted vegetables, diced avocado, cilantro, serrano, cotija (if using), and a generous scoop of the avocado tomatillo sauce. Serve with extra sauce on the side.
Store extra sauce in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.
Notes
Vegan: skip the cotija cheese
Gluten free: use corn tortillas
CHICKEN NACHO TACOS
This comes from Campbells, and begins, "These tasty tacos combine a few on-hand ingredients with canned chicken and fiesta nacho cheese soup to make a delicious dish super-simple!"
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4; Calories: 300/serving
To view this online, go to https://www.campbells.com/recipes/chicken-nacho-tacos/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbells® Condensed Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup
8 taco shell, warmed
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup chopped tomato
Directions
Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and chili powder and cook until the onion is tender, stirring often.
Stir the soup and chicken in the skillet and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbling. Spoon the chicken mixture into the taco shells. Top with the lettuce and tomato.
BLT RANCH QUESADILLAS
This is from Old El Paso, and begins, "Now you can enjoy your favorite BLT sandwich as a quesadilla! The Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce makes this one extra delicious!"
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/blt-ranch-quesadillas.
Ingredients
4 Old El Paso™ Flour Tortillas for burritos, 8 inch (from 11-oz package)
1 1/3 cups Old El Paso™ Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
3/4 cup chopped baby spinach
1/3 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce
Directions
On one half of each tortilla, spread 1/3 cup cheese, 2 tablespoons bacon and 2 tablespoons spinach; fold tortilla over filling.
Heat 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Place 2 quesadillas in skillet at a time. Cook 2 to 4 minutes, turning once, until tortilla is golden brown and crisp and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining quesadillas.
Top quesadillas with remaining spinach and tomato; drizzle with sauce. To serve, cut into wedges.
Expert Tips
Use fresh pico de gallo in place of tomato to add a bit of additional flavor and heat.
After cooking each quesadilla, cover it to keep it warm while you cook the remaining quesadillas. When cooking second batch of quesadillas, watch tortillas carefully since skillet will already be hot.
Cheddar and Mexican 4 cheese are great substitutes for the Monterey Jack.
Serve the sauce alongside the quesadillas for dipping rather than drizzling on top, if desired.
Nutrition: 4 servings (1 quesadilla each); 1 Serving Calories 340 (Calories from Fat 180); Total Fat 20g (Saturated Fat 10g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 50mg; Sodium 740mg; Total Carbohydrate 27g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 2g); Protein 14g; % Daily Value: Vitamin A 15%; Vitamin C 4%; Calcium 30%; Iron 10%; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Vegetable, 1 High-Fat Meat, 2 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 2
MEXICAN CHICKEN COBB TACOS
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "The classic cobb salad gets a Mexican twist in this easy-to-assemble taco. Taco seasoned shredded rotisserie chicken layered on a bed of chopped romaine lettuce and topped with shredded Mexican style 4 cheese blend, chopped avocado, bacon and tomatoes."
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/mexican-chicken-cobb-tacos.
Ingredient
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 1/2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken
1 package (0.85 oz) Old El Paso™ Chicken Taco Seasoning Mix
1/4 cup water
2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Mexican Style 4 Cheese Blend (4 oz)
1 package (8 count) Old El Paso™ Soft Tortilla Bowls, heated as directed on package
1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and coarsely chopped
4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (1/2 cup)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce
Lime wedges, if desired
Preparation
In 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken, taco seasoning mix and water; cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is heated through. Remove from heat.
Divide romaine lettuce, chicken mixture and cheese among heated tortilla bowls.
Top each bowl with avocado, bacon and tomatoes. Serve with ranch sauce and lime wedges.
Expert Tips
Ranch dressing can be used instead of Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce.
To dice avocado, cut in half, and remove pit. Using large spoon, scoop flesh from skin. Place one half avocado cut side down on cutting board. Make two horizontal cuts to make three planks, then cut lengthwise into strips. Turn 90 degrees, and cut again. Repeat with other half of avocado.
SOUTHWEST CHIPOTLE FISH TACOS
This also comes from Hidden Valley. Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.hiddenvalley.com/recipe/southwest-chipotle-fish-tacos/.
Ingredients
8 frozen fish fillets
1/2 pound coleslaw or shredded cabbage
1/4 cup Hidden Valley® Spicy Ranch Dressing
8 corn tortillas
1 cup salsa
Directions
Prepare fish fillets according to package directions.
In a medium bowl, toss coleslaw and dressing until well-combined.
Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.
To assemble, place 1 fish fillet on each tortilla, top with coleslaw and salsa. Serve immediately.
Notes: For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.
For dips, make and enjoy your dip creation. Then, refrigerate within 2 hours or discard.
LIME CHICKEN TACOS
This comes from Taste of Home, and begins with this note from Tracy Gunter (of Boise, Idaho), "Our fun, simple chicken taco recipe is perfect for a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad."
Prep: 10 minutes; Cook: 5 1/2 hours; Makes: 6 servings
View this online at https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/lime-chicken-tacos/.
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast halves
3 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 cup chunky salsa
12 fat-free flour tortillas (6 inches), warmed
Optional: Sour cream, pickled onions, shredded lettuce and shredded cheddar or Cotija cheese
Directions
Place chicken in a 3-qt. slow cooker. Combine lime juice and chili powder; pour over chicken. Cook, covered, on low until chicken is tender, 5-6 hours.
Remove chicken. When cool enough to handle, shred meat with 2 forks; return to slow cooker. Stir in corn and salsa. Cook, covered, on low until heated through, about 30 minutes. Place filling on tortillas; if desired, serve with sour cream, pickled onions, lettuce and cheese.
b>VEGGIE TACOS WITH AVOCADO TOMATILLO SALSA
This is from Jeanine & Jack at Love & Lemons. The recipe starts off, “I know – another taco recipe already? Well, I like tacos. I’m sure you do too because you are here after all.”
Prep time: 10 mins; Cook time: 30 mins; Total time: 40 mins; Serves: serves 2-3
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 small Japanese eggplant, chopped into 1-inch pieces
1 cup chopped summer squash (yellow, pattypan, or zucchini)
1 red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil
6 corn or flour tortillas
1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 avocado, diced
handful of cilantro
1 serrano pepper, sliced (optional)
crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Avocado Tomatillo Sauce:
1/3 cup store-bought or homemade tomatillo salsa
1/4 cup pepitas
1/2 avocado
handful of spinach
2 tbsp olive oil
squeezes of lime, to taste
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chopped eggplant, squash, red pepper and tomatoes onto the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and pinches of salt and pepper and roast until golden brown around the edges 25-30 minutes.
Meanwhile, make your sauce. In a food processor, blend together the tomatillo salsa, pepitas, avocado, spinach, olive oil, lime juice and pinches of salt and pepper, to taste. Chill until ready to use.
Assemble the tacos with the black beans, roasted vegetables, diced avocado, cilantro, serrano, cotija (if using), and a generous scoop of the avocado tomatillo sauce. Serve with extra sauce on the side.
Store extra sauce in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.
Notes
Vegan: skip the cotija cheese
Gluten free: use corn tortillas
CHICKEN NACHO TACOS
This comes from Campbells, and begins, "These tasty tacos combine a few on-hand ingredients with canned chicken and fiesta nacho cheese soup to make a delicious dish super-simple!"
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4; Calories: 300/serving
To view this online, go to https://www.campbells.com/recipes/chicken-nacho-tacos/.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbells® Condensed Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup
8 taco shell, warmed
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup chopped tomato
Directions
Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and chili powder and cook until the onion is tender, stirring often.
Stir the soup and chicken in the skillet and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbling. Spoon the chicken mixture into the taco shells. Top with the lettuce and tomato.
Monday, September 28, 2020
Pasta - Double-Post Monday
Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's double post deals with one of my favorites, pasta, and includes Barbecue-Cheddar Chicken Pasta and Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Pasta. Enjoy!
CREAMY TURMERIC PASTA
This is from Sue Li in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sue wrote, "This earthy pasta is cobbled together using ingredients that you almost certainly already have in your kitchen. Its approach is fairly standard: Melt some butter, sauté some garlic and shallots, simmer with cream, then add some Parmesan and pasta cooking water to create a silky sauce. That alone would make a great meal, but what makes this recipe really special is the addition of ground turmeric, which gives this simple dish its vibrant color and sophisticated depth of flavor. This is meant to be a lazy meal — the kind of dish you throw together, then eat out of a big bowl while sitting on the couch — but if you're feeling the need for something green, serve the pasta with a simple salad dressed with vinegar and olive oil."
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 30 minutes
This can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020033-creamy-turmeric-pasta.
Ingredients
1 pound spaghetti
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large shallot, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
1 cup half-and-half
2 cups lightly packed freshly grated Parmesan (about 4 ounces), plus more for serving
4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley or chives
Preparation
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water and drain.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring, until golden-brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Add turmeric and stir to toast, about 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half then bring to a simmer.
Whisk in the 2 cups Parmesan, then add the cooked spaghetti and all of the reserved pasta cooking liquid and toss to coat. Serve with chopped parsley and more Parmesan.
TURKEY SAUSAGE AND BROCCOLI PASTA
This is from the Food Network.
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Yield: 2 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/turkey-sausage-and-broccoli-pasta-recipe-1957827.
Ingredients
8 ounces rigatoni
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound turkey sausage
Red pepper flakes, to taste
1 onion, chopped
3/4 cups chicken stock
1/2 red pepper, sliced
1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
Directions
Prepare rigatoni according to directions on box. Remove sausage meat from casing, set aside. In hot skillet saute onions. Add pepper and crumbled sausage meat. Stir and cook over medium high heat for 5 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Add chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add florets and cover to steam. Once broccoli is tender add rigatoni to pan. Stir to coat. Serve.
CAPELLINI WITH TOMATOES AND BASIL
This is from Ina Garten on her the Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa.
Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this inline, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/capellini-with-tomatoes-and-basil-recipe-1949902.
Ingredients
Kosher salt
1/2 cup good olive oil, plus extra for the pot
2 tablespoons minced garlic (6 cloves)
4 pints small cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes
18 large basil leaves, julienned
2 tablespoons chopped fresh curly parsley
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
3/4 pound dried capellini or angel hair pasta
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Extra chopped basil and grated Parmesan, for serving
Directions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons of salt and a splash of oil to the pot.
Meanwhile, heat the 1/2 cup of olive oil in a large (12-inch) saute pan. Add the garlic to the oil and cook over medium heat for 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes, basil, parsley, thyme, 2 teaspoons salt, the pepper, and red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften but don't break up.
While the tomatoes are cooking, add the capellini to the pot of boiling water and cook for 2 minutes, or according to the directions on the package. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water.
Place the pasta in a large serving bowl, add the tomatoes and Parmesan and toss well. Add some of the pasta water if the pasta seems too dry. Serve large bowls of pasta with extra basil sprinkled on top and a big bowl of extra Parmesan on the side.
BARBECUE-CHEDDAR CHICKEN PASTA
This is from a Publix email. Servings: 6; Active Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 6 hours, 16 minutes
To view this online, go to https://ww4.publix.com/recipes-planning/aprons-simple-meals/barbecue-cheddar-chicken-pasta-with-simple-watermelon-ice-cream. It comes with another recipe (Simple Watermelon Ice Cream).
Ingredients
1 small red onion, coarsely chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
1 block sharp cheddar cheese (6–8 oz), shredded
1 Deli smoked (or oven-roasted) chicken, shredded
4 slices thick-cut bacon
1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes with garlic, undrained
2 cups no-salt-added chicken stock (or broth)
1/2 cup bold and spicy barbecue sauce
9 oz fresh linguine (or fettucine) pasta
3 oz presliced green onions
Directions
Chop red onion and pepper. Shred cheese (about 2 cups).
Shred chicken (2 cups).
Cut bacon into 1/2-inch pieces, then place in large sauté pan on medium (wash hands); cook bacon 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp. Remove bacon from pan; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons bacon drippings in pan.
Return pan to heat, then add red onions and peppers; cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until lightly browned. Add tomatoes, stock, and barbecue sauce; stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Stir in chicken, pasta, and 1 cup cheese; cook and stir 2–3 minutes or until pasta is tender, cheese has melted, and sauce has thickened. Divide mixture among serving plates; top evenly with reserved bacon pieces, remaining 1 cup cheese, and green onions. Serve.
Aprons Advice
Complete your meal with fresh salad blend, steamed vegetables, crusty bread, and lemonade.
SOUTHERN MACARONI AND CHEESE
This comes from Kiera Wright-Ruiz in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Kiera wrote, "There is macaroni and cheese, and then there is special occasion macaroni and cheese like this one. Unlike most recipes, which start with a roux, this one begins with a milk-and-egg base, which gives the dish an incredibly rich, silky taste. It’s adapted from Millie Peartree, the owner of Millie Peartree Fish Fry & Soul Food restaurant in the Bronx, who has been making this dish since she was a little girl. The recipe was passed down in her family for generations, but because of the generous amount of cheese used, the dish was only made for events like Christmas and Thanksgiving. Extra-sharp Cheddar adds tartness and a layer of Colby Jack creates a gooey, molten center. If you can’t find a Colby Jack blend, shredded mozzarella or a Mexican-style blend will work in its place."
Yield: 8 to 10 servings; Time 45 minutes, plus cooling
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020515-southern-macaroni-and-cheese.
Ingredients
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 pound elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
2 large eggs
4 cups shredded extra-sharp Cheddar (about 16 ounces)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
2 cups shredded Colby Jack (about 8 ounces)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions until a little under al dente, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk milk and eggs. Add cooked macaroni, 2 cups extra-sharp Cheddar, melted butter, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and stir until well combined.
Add half the macaroni mixture to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish in an even layer. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups Colby Jack evenly on top. Spread the remaining macaroni mixture on top in an even layer. Cover with aluminum foil, transfer to the middle rack of the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven. Carefully remove and discard the aluminum foil. Top the macaroni mixture with the remaining 2 cups Cheddar and 1/2 cup Colby Jack. Broil on top rack until cheese is browned in spots, 3 to 5 minutes. (The broiled cheese can go from golden to burnt fairly quickly, so keep a close eye on it.)
Remove from oven and let cool until the macaroni and cheese is fully set, 10 to 15 minutes. (The mixture may first appear jiggly, but it will firm up as it cools.) Serve warm.
BALSAMIC VEGGIE PASTA
This comes from Ali at her wonderful site, Gimme Some Oven. This recipe starts off, "This easy Balsamic Veggie Pasta recipe is overflowing with fresh veggies, and sautéed in a delicious balsamic sauce."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Yield: 6-8
To view this online (recipe and chit-chat beforehand), go to https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/easy-balsamic-veggie-pasta/.
Ingredients
12 ounces uncooked pasta (I used penne)
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 small red onion, peeled and thinly-sliced
1 pound asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces (with ends trimmed off and discarded)
1 small head of broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 red bell pepper, cored and thinly-sliced
Kosher salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
5 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
3–4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Cook pasta in a large stock pot of generously-salted boiling water al dente according to package instructions. Then drain the pasta, and set it aside.
Meanwhile, as the pasta water is heating and the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the red onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes. Add the asparagus, broccoli, and red bell pepper, and season the mixture with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Continue sautéing for 4-5 more minutes, stirring occasionally. (Adding in another tablespoon of oil if needed.) Stir in the garlic and continue sautéing for 1-2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat.
Once the veggies and pasta have all finished cooking, return the stockpot to the stove over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, cooked pasta, veggie mixture, balsamic vinegar, lots of freshly-cracked black pepper, and toss to combine. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, so that the pasta is very lightly toasted. Taste, and add extra balsamic vinegar and black pepper if needed.
Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with lots of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
*Feel free to also add a splash of dry white wine to the pasta along with the balsamic, if you’d like. Delicious!
CREAMY TURMERIC PASTA
This is from Sue Li in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sue wrote, "This earthy pasta is cobbled together using ingredients that you almost certainly already have in your kitchen. Its approach is fairly standard: Melt some butter, sauté some garlic and shallots, simmer with cream, then add some Parmesan and pasta cooking water to create a silky sauce. That alone would make a great meal, but what makes this recipe really special is the addition of ground turmeric, which gives this simple dish its vibrant color and sophisticated depth of flavor. This is meant to be a lazy meal — the kind of dish you throw together, then eat out of a big bowl while sitting on the couch — but if you're feeling the need for something green, serve the pasta with a simple salad dressed with vinegar and olive oil."
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 30 minutes
This can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020033-creamy-turmeric-pasta.
Ingredients
1 pound spaghetti
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large shallot, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
1 cup half-and-half
2 cups lightly packed freshly grated Parmesan (about 4 ounces), plus more for serving
4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley or chives
Preparation
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water and drain.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring, until golden-brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Add turmeric and stir to toast, about 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half then bring to a simmer.
Whisk in the 2 cups Parmesan, then add the cooked spaghetti and all of the reserved pasta cooking liquid and toss to coat. Serve with chopped parsley and more Parmesan.
TURKEY SAUSAGE AND BROCCOLI PASTA
This is from the Food Network.
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Yield: 2 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/turkey-sausage-and-broccoli-pasta-recipe-1957827.
Ingredients
8 ounces rigatoni
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound turkey sausage
Red pepper flakes, to taste
1 onion, chopped
3/4 cups chicken stock
1/2 red pepper, sliced
1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
Directions
Prepare rigatoni according to directions on box. Remove sausage meat from casing, set aside. In hot skillet saute onions. Add pepper and crumbled sausage meat. Stir and cook over medium high heat for 5 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Add chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add florets and cover to steam. Once broccoli is tender add rigatoni to pan. Stir to coat. Serve.
CAPELLINI WITH TOMATOES AND BASIL
This is from Ina Garten on her the Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa.
Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this inline, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/capellini-with-tomatoes-and-basil-recipe-1949902.
Ingredients
Kosher salt
1/2 cup good olive oil, plus extra for the pot
2 tablespoons minced garlic (6 cloves)
4 pints small cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes
18 large basil leaves, julienned
2 tablespoons chopped fresh curly parsley
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
3/4 pound dried capellini or angel hair pasta
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Extra chopped basil and grated Parmesan, for serving
Directions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons of salt and a splash of oil to the pot.
Meanwhile, heat the 1/2 cup of olive oil in a large (12-inch) saute pan. Add the garlic to the oil and cook over medium heat for 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes, basil, parsley, thyme, 2 teaspoons salt, the pepper, and red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften but don't break up.
While the tomatoes are cooking, add the capellini to the pot of boiling water and cook for 2 minutes, or according to the directions on the package. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water.
Place the pasta in a large serving bowl, add the tomatoes and Parmesan and toss well. Add some of the pasta water if the pasta seems too dry. Serve large bowls of pasta with extra basil sprinkled on top and a big bowl of extra Parmesan on the side.
BARBECUE-CHEDDAR CHICKEN PASTA
This is from a Publix email. Servings: 6; Active Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 6 hours, 16 minutes
To view this online, go to https://ww4.publix.com/recipes-planning/aprons-simple-meals/barbecue-cheddar-chicken-pasta-with-simple-watermelon-ice-cream. It comes with another recipe (Simple Watermelon Ice Cream).
Ingredients
1 small red onion, coarsely chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
1 block sharp cheddar cheese (6–8 oz), shredded
1 Deli smoked (or oven-roasted) chicken, shredded
4 slices thick-cut bacon
1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes with garlic, undrained
2 cups no-salt-added chicken stock (or broth)
1/2 cup bold and spicy barbecue sauce
9 oz fresh linguine (or fettucine) pasta
3 oz presliced green onions
Directions
Chop red onion and pepper. Shred cheese (about 2 cups).
Shred chicken (2 cups).
Cut bacon into 1/2-inch pieces, then place in large sauté pan on medium (wash hands); cook bacon 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp. Remove bacon from pan; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons bacon drippings in pan.
Return pan to heat, then add red onions and peppers; cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until lightly browned. Add tomatoes, stock, and barbecue sauce; stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Stir in chicken, pasta, and 1 cup cheese; cook and stir 2–3 minutes or until pasta is tender, cheese has melted, and sauce has thickened. Divide mixture among serving plates; top evenly with reserved bacon pieces, remaining 1 cup cheese, and green onions. Serve.
Aprons Advice
Complete your meal with fresh salad blend, steamed vegetables, crusty bread, and lemonade.
SOUTHERN MACARONI AND CHEESE
This comes from Kiera Wright-Ruiz in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Kiera wrote, "There is macaroni and cheese, and then there is special occasion macaroni and cheese like this one. Unlike most recipes, which start with a roux, this one begins with a milk-and-egg base, which gives the dish an incredibly rich, silky taste. It’s adapted from Millie Peartree, the owner of Millie Peartree Fish Fry & Soul Food restaurant in the Bronx, who has been making this dish since she was a little girl. The recipe was passed down in her family for generations, but because of the generous amount of cheese used, the dish was only made for events like Christmas and Thanksgiving. Extra-sharp Cheddar adds tartness and a layer of Colby Jack creates a gooey, molten center. If you can’t find a Colby Jack blend, shredded mozzarella or a Mexican-style blend will work in its place."
Yield: 8 to 10 servings; Time 45 minutes, plus cooling
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020515-southern-macaroni-and-cheese.
Ingredients
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 pound elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
2 large eggs
4 cups shredded extra-sharp Cheddar (about 16 ounces)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
2 cups shredded Colby Jack (about 8 ounces)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions until a little under al dente, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk milk and eggs. Add cooked macaroni, 2 cups extra-sharp Cheddar, melted butter, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and stir until well combined.
Add half the macaroni mixture to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish in an even layer. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups Colby Jack evenly on top. Spread the remaining macaroni mixture on top in an even layer. Cover with aluminum foil, transfer to the middle rack of the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven. Carefully remove and discard the aluminum foil. Top the macaroni mixture with the remaining 2 cups Cheddar and 1/2 cup Colby Jack. Broil on top rack until cheese is browned in spots, 3 to 5 minutes. (The broiled cheese can go from golden to burnt fairly quickly, so keep a close eye on it.)
Remove from oven and let cool until the macaroni and cheese is fully set, 10 to 15 minutes. (The mixture may first appear jiggly, but it will firm up as it cools.) Serve warm.
BALSAMIC VEGGIE PASTA
This comes from Ali at her wonderful site, Gimme Some Oven. This recipe starts off, "This easy Balsamic Veggie Pasta recipe is overflowing with fresh veggies, and sautéed in a delicious balsamic sauce."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Yield: 6-8
To view this online (recipe and chit-chat beforehand), go to https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/easy-balsamic-veggie-pasta/.
Ingredients
12 ounces uncooked pasta (I used penne)
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 small red onion, peeled and thinly-sliced
1 pound asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces (with ends trimmed off and discarded)
1 small head of broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 red bell pepper, cored and thinly-sliced
Kosher salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
5 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
3–4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Cook pasta in a large stock pot of generously-salted boiling water al dente according to package instructions. Then drain the pasta, and set it aside.
Meanwhile, as the pasta water is heating and the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the red onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes. Add the asparagus, broccoli, and red bell pepper, and season the mixture with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Continue sautéing for 4-5 more minutes, stirring occasionally. (Adding in another tablespoon of oil if needed.) Stir in the garlic and continue sautéing for 1-2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat.
Once the veggies and pasta have all finished cooking, return the stockpot to the stove over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, cooked pasta, veggie mixture, balsamic vinegar, lots of freshly-cracked black pepper, and toss to combine. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, so that the pasta is very lightly toasted. Taste, and add extra balsamic vinegar and black pepper if needed.
Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with lots of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
*Feel free to also add a splash of dry white wine to the pasta along with the balsamic, if you’d like. Delicious!
Meatless Monday - Lasagna
It's time for another Meatless Monday. Today's Meatless Monday deals with one of my favorites, lasagna.
I absolutely love lasagna, so it really wasn't that difficult to find six vegetarian lasagna recipes to post. Included in today's offerings are Lasagna Roll-Ups and Taco Lasagna. Enjoy!
BANANA SPLIT LASAGNA
This comes from Rian Handler on Delish. Rian wrote, “This no-bake dessert is hands down the most fun way to eat a banana split.”
Yields: 12; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 4 hours, 35 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Crust
2 c. crushed graham crackers
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter, melted
2 tbsp. sugar
kosher salt
For the Cream Filling
12 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 c. sugar
8 oz. cool whip
For the Fruit Layer
3 bananas, thinly sliced
20 oz. can crushed pineapple, well drained
1 lb. strawberries, finely chopped
Additional Toppings
8 oz. cool whip
1/2 c. walnuts, toasted and chopped
chocolate syrup, for serving
Rainbow sprinkles, for serving
Maraschino cherries, for serving
Directions
Grease a 9"-x-13” baking dish.
Make crust: In a medium bowl, add graham cracker crumbs, butter, sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix until evenly combined, then press into baking dish. Refrigerate until set, at least 15 minutes.
Make cream filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy, 5 minutes. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread mixture evenly onto crust.
To cream layer, add even layers of banana, pineapple and strawberries. Top with Cool Whip and sprinkle with walnuts. Refrigerate at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.
When ready to serve, garnish with chocolate syrup, sprinkles and maraschino cherries.
ASPARAGUS-PESTO LASAGNA
This is from the April 2006 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “This recipe uses two popular Italian lasagna fillings: asparagus and pesto.” Serves 10.
To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/asparagus-pesto-lasagna/
Ingredients
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups low-fat milk, divided
6 Tbs. pesto*, or more to taste
2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnish, optional
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
2 tsp. olive oil
1 1/4 lb. asparagus spears, tips cut off and reserved, spears trimmed and chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)
16 no-cook lasagna noodles (9 oz.)
2 cups shredded Fontina or part-skim mozzarella cheese (8 oz.), divided
Directions
Preheat oven to 350F. Whisk flour and 1/2 cup milk in saucepan until smooth. Gradually whisk in remaining milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly, and boil 1 minute, or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in pesto, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Reserve 1 cup white sauce.
Warm oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped asparagus (not tips) and cook, stirring often, 5 minutes, or until tender. Add garlic; cook, stirring, 1 minute, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Coat 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Place layer of noodles in dish, overlapping slightly. Layer with half of cooked asparagus, 3/4 cup Fontina and half of sauce. Add another layer of pasta, remaining sauce, remaining cooked asparagus and 3/4 cup Fontina. Top with layer of noodles, then with reserved 1 cup white sauce. Arrange reserved asparagus tips over top and sprinkle with remaining Fontina.
Bake, uncovered, 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden. Let stand 10 minutes; serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
* Look for the freshest, most flavorful pesto in the refrigerator section of the supermarket, packaged in vacuum-sealed bags or in plastic tubs.
nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 413; Protein: 21 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 44 g; Cholesterol: 44 mg; Sodium: 686 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 8 g
LASAGNA ROLL-UPS
This recipe, from FamilyTime, begins, “These tender lasagna rolls are filled with a ricotta-mushroom-pesto mixture, and baked in a special sauce made by combining Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce and Pace® Picante Sauce.”
Serves: 4 servings (2 roll-ups each); Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 can (about 4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
1/2 cup refrigerated pesto sauce
8 lasagna noodle, cooked and drained
2 cups Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce or Tomato, Basil & Garlic Italian Sauce
3/4 cup Pace® Picante Sauce
4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup)
Directions
Stir the ricotta, mushrooms and pesto in a medium bowl. Top each noodle with 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture. Spread to the edges. Roll up like a jelly roll. Place the rolls seam-side down in a 2-quart shallow baking dish.
Stir the Italian sauce and picante sauce in a small bowl and pour the mixture over the roll-ups.
Bake at 400°F. for 30 minutes or until they're hot and bubbling. Top with the mozzarella cheese. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes.
SCOTTO CHEESE LASAGNA
This is from FamilyTime, and begins, “This delectable lasagna makes great use of convenience products so that you've can put the dish together in just 15 minutes! While it bakes you can throw together a salad, and you've got a fabulous dinner for very little work.”
Serves: 8 servings (about 1 1/2 cups each); Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 70 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 container (32 ounces) ricotta cheese
2 eggs, beaten
Prego® Tomato Basil & Garlic Italian Sauce or 5 cups Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce
12 lasagna noodle, cooked and drained
1 1/2 pounds mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
2 cups grated parmesan cheese
1 package (10 ounces) Pepperidge Farm® Mozzarella and Garlic Loaf
Directions
Heat the oven to 350°F. Stir the ricotta and the eggs in a medium bowl.
Spread 1 cup sauce on the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish. Layer with 3 lasagna noodles, 1 1/3 cups ricotta mixture, 1/4 of the mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan and 1 1/2 cups sauce. Repeat to make 2 more layers. Top with the remaining noodles, sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the baking dish.
Bake at 350°F. for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 minutes or until the lasagna is hot and bubbling and the cheese is melted. Remove the lasagna from the oven. Let the lasagna stand for 1 hour.
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F. for the bread. Bake the bread according to the package directions.
Cut the bread into 2-inch diagonal slices. Serve the bread with the lasagna.
TACO ZUCCHINI LASAGNA
This comes from Linday Funston on Delish, and begins, “So flavorful, you won't even notice the noodles are gone.”
Total Time: 45 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4 - 6
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 lb. ground beef
3/4 c. ricotta
1/2 c. sour cream, plus more for drizzling
1 large egg
1/3 c. salsa
3 large zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
2 c. shredded Cheddar
2 c. Shredded Monterey Jack
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 350º. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and cook until tender, 5 minutes. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, 8 minutes more. Drain fat.
In a small bowl, stir together ricotta, sour cream, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large baking or casserole dish, spread a thin layer of salsa. Top with a layer of zucchini noodles, sour cream mixture, ground beef, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, ending with zucchini noodles.
Bake until noodles are tender and cheese is bubbly, 25 minutes.
Drizzle with sour cream, garnish with cilantro, and serve.
TORTILLA LASAGNA
This is from the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 48. It begins, "This easy, crowd-pleasing dish is also a kid favorite. Toasting the tortillas before building the lasagna keeps them from getting soggy as the dish bakes. Feel free to mix things up with different beans, cheeses, or vegetables between the layers." Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
6 8-inch fat-free flour tortillas
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)
2 Tbs. chili powder
2 tsp. ancho chile powder
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
2 cups strained tomatoes, such as Pomì, divided
1 1/2 cups cooked black beans, or 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium chayote, peeled and diced, or 2 medium zucchini, diced (1 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast tortillas on 2 baking sheets in oven 5 minutes, or until light brown, turning once.
Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 minutes, or until soft. Stir in chili powder, ancho chile powder, and garlic, and cook 30 seconds. Add 11/2 cups strained tomatoes, beans, chayote, corn, and 1/2 cup water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cover, and cook 10 minutes, or until chayote is tender.
Coat 2-inch-deep x 8-inch round baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/4 cup strained tomatoes in bottom of pan. Set 1 toasted tortilla in pan; top with 3/4 cup bean mixture and 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering 4 more times. Top with last tortilla, and spread remaining 1/4 cup strained tomatoes over top. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly and cheese has melted. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into 8 wedges.
nutritional information Per Wedge: Calories: 226; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g; Cholesterol: 19 mg; Sodium: 506 mg; Fiber: 10 g; Sugar: 4 g
I absolutely love lasagna, so it really wasn't that difficult to find six vegetarian lasagna recipes to post. Included in today's offerings are Lasagna Roll-Ups and Taco Lasagna. Enjoy!
BANANA SPLIT LASAGNA
This comes from Rian Handler on Delish. Rian wrote, “This no-bake dessert is hands down the most fun way to eat a banana split.”
Yields: 12; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 4 hours, 35 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Crust
2 c. crushed graham crackers
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter, melted
2 tbsp. sugar
kosher salt
For the Cream Filling
12 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 c. sugar
8 oz. cool whip
For the Fruit Layer
3 bananas, thinly sliced
20 oz. can crushed pineapple, well drained
1 lb. strawberries, finely chopped
Additional Toppings
8 oz. cool whip
1/2 c. walnuts, toasted and chopped
chocolate syrup, for serving
Rainbow sprinkles, for serving
Maraschino cherries, for serving
Directions
Grease a 9"-x-13” baking dish.
Make crust: In a medium bowl, add graham cracker crumbs, butter, sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix until evenly combined, then press into baking dish. Refrigerate until set, at least 15 minutes.
Make cream filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy, 5 minutes. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread mixture evenly onto crust.
To cream layer, add even layers of banana, pineapple and strawberries. Top with Cool Whip and sprinkle with walnuts. Refrigerate at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.
When ready to serve, garnish with chocolate syrup, sprinkles and maraschino cherries.
ASPARAGUS-PESTO LASAGNA
This is from the April 2006 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “This recipe uses two popular Italian lasagna fillings: asparagus and pesto.” Serves 10.
To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/asparagus-pesto-lasagna/
Ingredients
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups low-fat milk, divided
6 Tbs. pesto*, or more to taste
2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnish, optional
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
2 tsp. olive oil
1 1/4 lb. asparagus spears, tips cut off and reserved, spears trimmed and chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)
16 no-cook lasagna noodles (9 oz.)
2 cups shredded Fontina or part-skim mozzarella cheese (8 oz.), divided
Directions
Preheat oven to 350F. Whisk flour and 1/2 cup milk in saucepan until smooth. Gradually whisk in remaining milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly, and boil 1 minute, or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in pesto, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Reserve 1 cup white sauce.
Warm oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped asparagus (not tips) and cook, stirring often, 5 minutes, or until tender. Add garlic; cook, stirring, 1 minute, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Coat 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Place layer of noodles in dish, overlapping slightly. Layer with half of cooked asparagus, 3/4 cup Fontina and half of sauce. Add another layer of pasta, remaining sauce, remaining cooked asparagus and 3/4 cup Fontina. Top with layer of noodles, then with reserved 1 cup white sauce. Arrange reserved asparagus tips over top and sprinkle with remaining Fontina.
Bake, uncovered, 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden. Let stand 10 minutes; serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
* Look for the freshest, most flavorful pesto in the refrigerator section of the supermarket, packaged in vacuum-sealed bags or in plastic tubs.
nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 413; Protein: 21 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 44 g; Cholesterol: 44 mg; Sodium: 686 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 8 g
LASAGNA ROLL-UPS
This recipe, from FamilyTime, begins, “These tender lasagna rolls are filled with a ricotta-mushroom-pesto mixture, and baked in a special sauce made by combining Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce and Pace® Picante Sauce.”
Serves: 4 servings (2 roll-ups each); Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 can (about 4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
1/2 cup refrigerated pesto sauce
8 lasagna noodle, cooked and drained
2 cups Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce or Tomato, Basil & Garlic Italian Sauce
3/4 cup Pace® Picante Sauce
4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup)
Directions
Stir the ricotta, mushrooms and pesto in a medium bowl. Top each noodle with 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture. Spread to the edges. Roll up like a jelly roll. Place the rolls seam-side down in a 2-quart shallow baking dish.
Stir the Italian sauce and picante sauce in a small bowl and pour the mixture over the roll-ups.
Bake at 400°F. for 30 minutes or until they're hot and bubbling. Top with the mozzarella cheese. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes.
SCOTTO CHEESE LASAGNA
This is from FamilyTime, and begins, “This delectable lasagna makes great use of convenience products so that you've can put the dish together in just 15 minutes! While it bakes you can throw together a salad, and you've got a fabulous dinner for very little work.”
Serves: 8 servings (about 1 1/2 cups each); Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 70 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 container (32 ounces) ricotta cheese
2 eggs, beaten
Prego® Tomato Basil & Garlic Italian Sauce or 5 cups Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce
12 lasagna noodle, cooked and drained
1 1/2 pounds mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
2 cups grated parmesan cheese
1 package (10 ounces) Pepperidge Farm® Mozzarella and Garlic Loaf
Directions
Heat the oven to 350°F. Stir the ricotta and the eggs in a medium bowl.
Spread 1 cup sauce on the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish. Layer with 3 lasagna noodles, 1 1/3 cups ricotta mixture, 1/4 of the mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan and 1 1/2 cups sauce. Repeat to make 2 more layers. Top with the remaining noodles, sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the baking dish.
Bake at 350°F. for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 minutes or until the lasagna is hot and bubbling and the cheese is melted. Remove the lasagna from the oven. Let the lasagna stand for 1 hour.
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F. for the bread. Bake the bread according to the package directions.
Cut the bread into 2-inch diagonal slices. Serve the bread with the lasagna.
TACO ZUCCHINI LASAGNA
This comes from Linday Funston on Delish, and begins, “So flavorful, you won't even notice the noodles are gone.”
Total Time: 45 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4 - 6
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 lb. ground beef
3/4 c. ricotta
1/2 c. sour cream, plus more for drizzling
1 large egg
1/3 c. salsa
3 large zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
2 c. shredded Cheddar
2 c. Shredded Monterey Jack
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 350º. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and cook until tender, 5 minutes. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, 8 minutes more. Drain fat.
In a small bowl, stir together ricotta, sour cream, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large baking or casserole dish, spread a thin layer of salsa. Top with a layer of zucchini noodles, sour cream mixture, ground beef, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, ending with zucchini noodles.
Bake until noodles are tender and cheese is bubbly, 25 minutes.
Drizzle with sour cream, garnish with cilantro, and serve.
TORTILLA LASAGNA
This is from the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 48. It begins, "This easy, crowd-pleasing dish is also a kid favorite. Toasting the tortillas before building the lasagna keeps them from getting soggy as the dish bakes. Feel free to mix things up with different beans, cheeses, or vegetables between the layers." Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
6 8-inch fat-free flour tortillas
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)
2 Tbs. chili powder
2 tsp. ancho chile powder
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
2 cups strained tomatoes, such as Pomì, divided
1 1/2 cups cooked black beans, or 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium chayote, peeled and diced, or 2 medium zucchini, diced (1 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast tortillas on 2 baking sheets in oven 5 minutes, or until light brown, turning once.
Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 minutes, or until soft. Stir in chili powder, ancho chile powder, and garlic, and cook 30 seconds. Add 11/2 cups strained tomatoes, beans, chayote, corn, and 1/2 cup water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cover, and cook 10 minutes, or until chayote is tender.
Coat 2-inch-deep x 8-inch round baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/4 cup strained tomatoes in bottom of pan. Set 1 toasted tortilla in pan; top with 3/4 cup bean mixture and 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering 4 more times. Top with last tortilla, and spread remaining 1/4 cup strained tomatoes over top. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly and cheese has melted. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into 8 wedges.
nutritional information Per Wedge: Calories: 226; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g; Cholesterol: 19 mg; Sodium: 506 mg; Fiber: 10 g; Sugar: 4 g
Friday, September 25, 2020
Friday Recipes
It's finally Friday. Yay! If you're like me, you probably have plans for the weekend, whether yard work (I have a feeling I'll be mowing our yard, hopefully for the last time this year), another project around the house, or (one of my favorites) going for a walk/run, followed by binge-watching your favorite show or movies.
Of course, we still need to eat once in a while. To that end, here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff and a Power Cheeseburger. Enjoy!
FAJITA STYLE ONE-DISH CHICKEN DINNER
This comes from Food. Time: 35 minutes; Serves 2-3.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 (1 1/4 ounce) package fajita seasoning mix
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 red pepper
1 yellow pepper
grated cheddar cheese
2 cups cooked rice
vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
Chop chicken breast into chunks.
Fry chicken quickly until almost cooked through.
Remove chicken from pan.
Cook peppers for 2-3 minutes.
Put chicken back in pan with peppers.
Add fajita seasoning and 1/4 cup water.
Cook until chicken is done.
Put mixture over rice and top with grated cheese.
OLD-FASHIONED MEATLOAF
This is from VeryWell Fit, and begins, “This lighter meatloaf recipe is similar to the one most of us enjoyed during our childhoods, but without all of the extra fat. Choose a lean ground beef or, better yet, ground turkey to cut down on the fat. And since you can't make meatloaf without breadcrumbs, why not replace the white, unrefined with whole wheat for added fiber? Also, using two egg whites in place of one whole egg will reduce the calories and fat while still helping to bind the mixture together.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground meat (85% to 90% lean, or ground turkey)
1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat)
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped or 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion flakes)
2 cloves garlic (minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon sage
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup water (or low-fat milk)
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. Mix well, using your hands, but don't overmix because you will toughen the meat.
Turn mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for about 1 hour.
To be sure the meatloaf is done, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The temperature should register 155F when it is done.
About 10 to 15 minutes before you think the meatloaf will be done, you can cover it with barbecue sauce if you like.
International Meatloaf
If you are looking for a different kind of meatloaf, try kofta kebabs, a Middle Eastern grilled ground meat recipe. The spices in this meat mixture (traditionally lamb) are a delicious change of pace from the usual. If you don't have the time or inclination to place them on skewers, you can make them into oblong-oval shapes that look like sausages without the casings.
POWER CHEESEBURGER
This is from The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Maura Egan and Christine Muhlke developed this recipe in 2004, around the time of the Olympic Games in Athens, after talking with Shane Hamman, then the No. 1 weight lifter in America, capable of squatting more than 1,000 pounds. He ate two for lunch, amid his 5,000 calorie day. It’s pretty delicious.”
Yield: 1 cheeseburger, Time: 20 minutes
This was featured in “Food; Athens on 5,000 Calorires a Day”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/10971-power-cheeseburger.
Ingredients
8 ounces ground beef, like chuck
1 egg yolk, beaten
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
2 to 3 slices sharp Cheddar cheese
1 sesame bun, halved and toasted if desired
Pickles
Ketchup and mustard
Preparation
In large bowl, combine beef, egg, paprika and salt. Mix well and form 1 large patty.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add patty and cook 4 minutes; turn over and top with cheese. Continue to cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes for medium rare.
Place the burger cheese side up on bun and top with pickles, ketchup and/or mustard. Place other bun half on top and serve.
INDIAN BUTTER CHICKPEAS
This is from Melissa Clark, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “A vegetarian riff on Indian butter chicken, this fragrant stew is spiced with cinnamon, garam masala and fresh ginger, and is rich and creamy from the coconut milk. You could add cubed tofu here for a soft textural contrast, or cubed seitan for a chewy one. Or serve it as it is, over rice to catch every last drop of the glorious sauce. You won’t want to leave any behind.”
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
This was featured in “The Meat-Lover’s Guide to Eating Less Meat”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020739-indian-butter-chickpeas.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
4 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 small cinnamon stick
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled plum tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can coconut milk
2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained
Ground cayenne (optional)
Cooked white rice, for serving
1/2 cup cilantro leaves and tender stems, for serving
Preparation
Melt butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in onion and 1/2 teaspoon salt; cook until golden and browned around the edges, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. (Don’t be tempted to turn the heat up to medium-high; keeping the heat on medium ensures even browning without burning the butter.)
Stir in garlic and ginger, and cook another 1 minute. Stir in cumin, paprika, garam masala and cinnamon stick, and cook another 30 seconds.
Add tomatoes with their juices. Using a large spoon or flat spatula, break up and smash the tomatoes in the pot (or you can use a pair of kitchen shears to cut the tomatoes while they are still in the can). Stir in coconut milk and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer, and continue to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, and continuing to mash up the tomatoes if necessary to help them break down.
Stir in chickpeas and a pinch of cayenne if you like. Bring the pot back up to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 10 minutes. Taste and add more salt if necessary.
Serve spooned over white rice, and topped with cilantro.
SLOW-COOKER BEEF STROGANOFF
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "When you transform a classic special-occasion meal into an easy-breezy weeknight dinner, it’s no wonder that you’re a top-rated recipe by hundreds of home cooks. Find out what all the buzz is about and try this beef stroganoff slow cooker recipe the next time you’re in need of mealtime inspiration."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup butter
2 lb boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into 3x1/2x1/4-inch strips
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed golden mushroom or cream of mushroom soup
1 carton (8 oz) sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 oz cream cheese, cubed (from 8-oz package)
1 container (8 oz) sour cream
6 cups hot cooked noodles or rice
Directions
In 12-inch skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips, onion and garlic; cook 7 to 9 minutes or until beef is browned.
In 3 1/2- to 4 1/2-quart slow cooker, mix beef mixture, soup, mushrooms, salt and pepper.
Cover; cook on low heat setting 5 to 6 hours or until beef is tender.
Stir cream cheese into beef mixture until melted. Stir in sour cream until well blended. Serve over noodles.
Expert Tips
Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Beef sirloin steak is more tender than other cuts of beef that are used for stews. Cooking the beef in butter until browned, results in the best flavor. Then the very low heat of the slow cooker keeps the meat tender.
With the slow braising of the stroganoff, the cream cheese creates an instantly smooth sauce, that combined with the sour cream stays thick and rich.
It’s easier to cut the beef into clean slices when it’s partially frozen for about 1 hour.
To save precious minutes in the morning, use minced garlic in a jar. You could also cut up the beef the night before and refrigerate.
BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
Today's final recipe is from that infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
8 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 cup Carnation Evaporated Lowfat 2% Milk
1/2 cup light sour cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups (8 oz. Pkg) shredded 2% cheddar cheese, divided
6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled, divided
Sliced green onions (optional)
Directions
Place potatoes in large saucepan. Cover with water, bring to a boil. Cook over medium-high heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender. Drain.
Preheat oven to 350º F. Grease 2 1/2 to 3-quart casserole dish.
Return potatoes to saucepan, add evaporated milk, sour cream, salt and pepper. Beat with hand-held mixer until smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheese and half of bacon. Spoon mixture into prepared casserole dish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese, remaining bacon and green onions. Bake for an additional 3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Of course, we still need to eat once in a while. To that end, here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff and a Power Cheeseburger. Enjoy!
FAJITA STYLE ONE-DISH CHICKEN DINNER
This comes from Food. Time: 35 minutes; Serves 2-3.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 (1 1/4 ounce) package fajita seasoning mix
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 red pepper
1 yellow pepper
grated cheddar cheese
2 cups cooked rice
vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
Chop chicken breast into chunks.
Fry chicken quickly until almost cooked through.
Remove chicken from pan.
Cook peppers for 2-3 minutes.
Put chicken back in pan with peppers.
Add fajita seasoning and 1/4 cup water.
Cook until chicken is done.
Put mixture over rice and top with grated cheese.
OLD-FASHIONED MEATLOAF
This is from VeryWell Fit, and begins, “This lighter meatloaf recipe is similar to the one most of us enjoyed during our childhoods, but without all of the extra fat. Choose a lean ground beef or, better yet, ground turkey to cut down on the fat. And since you can't make meatloaf without breadcrumbs, why not replace the white, unrefined with whole wheat for added fiber? Also, using two egg whites in place of one whole egg will reduce the calories and fat while still helping to bind the mixture together.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground meat (85% to 90% lean, or ground turkey)
1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat)
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped or 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion flakes)
2 cloves garlic (minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon sage
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup water (or low-fat milk)
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. Mix well, using your hands, but don't overmix because you will toughen the meat.
Turn mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for about 1 hour.
To be sure the meatloaf is done, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The temperature should register 155F when it is done.
About 10 to 15 minutes before you think the meatloaf will be done, you can cover it with barbecue sauce if you like.
International Meatloaf
If you are looking for a different kind of meatloaf, try kofta kebabs, a Middle Eastern grilled ground meat recipe. The spices in this meat mixture (traditionally lamb) are a delicious change of pace from the usual. If you don't have the time or inclination to place them on skewers, you can make them into oblong-oval shapes that look like sausages without the casings.
POWER CHEESEBURGER
This is from The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Maura Egan and Christine Muhlke developed this recipe in 2004, around the time of the Olympic Games in Athens, after talking with Shane Hamman, then the No. 1 weight lifter in America, capable of squatting more than 1,000 pounds. He ate two for lunch, amid his 5,000 calorie day. It’s pretty delicious.”
Yield: 1 cheeseburger, Time: 20 minutes
This was featured in “Food; Athens on 5,000 Calorires a Day”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/10971-power-cheeseburger.
Ingredients
8 ounces ground beef, like chuck
1 egg yolk, beaten
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
2 to 3 slices sharp Cheddar cheese
1 sesame bun, halved and toasted if desired
Pickles
Ketchup and mustard
Preparation
In large bowl, combine beef, egg, paprika and salt. Mix well and form 1 large patty.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add patty and cook 4 minutes; turn over and top with cheese. Continue to cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes for medium rare.
Place the burger cheese side up on bun and top with pickles, ketchup and/or mustard. Place other bun half on top and serve.
INDIAN BUTTER CHICKPEAS
This is from Melissa Clark, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “A vegetarian riff on Indian butter chicken, this fragrant stew is spiced with cinnamon, garam masala and fresh ginger, and is rich and creamy from the coconut milk. You could add cubed tofu here for a soft textural contrast, or cubed seitan for a chewy one. Or serve it as it is, over rice to catch every last drop of the glorious sauce. You won’t want to leave any behind.”
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
This was featured in “The Meat-Lover’s Guide to Eating Less Meat”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020739-indian-butter-chickpeas.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
4 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 small cinnamon stick
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled plum tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can coconut milk
2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained
Ground cayenne (optional)
Cooked white rice, for serving
1/2 cup cilantro leaves and tender stems, for serving
Preparation
Melt butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in onion and 1/2 teaspoon salt; cook until golden and browned around the edges, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. (Don’t be tempted to turn the heat up to medium-high; keeping the heat on medium ensures even browning without burning the butter.)
Stir in garlic and ginger, and cook another 1 minute. Stir in cumin, paprika, garam masala and cinnamon stick, and cook another 30 seconds.
Add tomatoes with their juices. Using a large spoon or flat spatula, break up and smash the tomatoes in the pot (or you can use a pair of kitchen shears to cut the tomatoes while they are still in the can). Stir in coconut milk and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer, and continue to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, and continuing to mash up the tomatoes if necessary to help them break down.
Stir in chickpeas and a pinch of cayenne if you like. Bring the pot back up to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 10 minutes. Taste and add more salt if necessary.
Serve spooned over white rice, and topped with cilantro.
SLOW-COOKER BEEF STROGANOFF
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "When you transform a classic special-occasion meal into an easy-breezy weeknight dinner, it’s no wonder that you’re a top-rated recipe by hundreds of home cooks. Find out what all the buzz is about and try this beef stroganoff slow cooker recipe the next time you’re in need of mealtime inspiration."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup butter
2 lb boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into 3x1/2x1/4-inch strips
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed golden mushroom or cream of mushroom soup
1 carton (8 oz) sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 oz cream cheese, cubed (from 8-oz package)
1 container (8 oz) sour cream
6 cups hot cooked noodles or rice
Directions
In 12-inch skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips, onion and garlic; cook 7 to 9 minutes or until beef is browned.
In 3 1/2- to 4 1/2-quart slow cooker, mix beef mixture, soup, mushrooms, salt and pepper.
Cover; cook on low heat setting 5 to 6 hours or until beef is tender.
Stir cream cheese into beef mixture until melted. Stir in sour cream until well blended. Serve over noodles.
Expert Tips
Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Beef sirloin steak is more tender than other cuts of beef that are used for stews. Cooking the beef in butter until browned, results in the best flavor. Then the very low heat of the slow cooker keeps the meat tender.
With the slow braising of the stroganoff, the cream cheese creates an instantly smooth sauce, that combined with the sour cream stays thick and rich.
It’s easier to cut the beef into clean slices when it’s partially frozen for about 1 hour.
To save precious minutes in the morning, use minced garlic in a jar. You could also cut up the beef the night before and refrigerate.
BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
Today's final recipe is from that infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
8 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 cup Carnation Evaporated Lowfat 2% Milk
1/2 cup light sour cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups (8 oz. Pkg) shredded 2% cheddar cheese, divided
6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled, divided
Sliced green onions (optional)
Directions
Place potatoes in large saucepan. Cover with water, bring to a boil. Cook over medium-high heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender. Drain.
Preheat oven to 350º F. Grease 2 1/2 to 3-quart casserole dish.
Return potatoes to saucepan, add evaporated milk, sour cream, salt and pepper. Beat with hand-held mixer until smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheese and half of bacon. Spoon mixture into prepared casserole dish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese, remaining bacon and green onions. Bake for an additional 3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Wednesday, September 23, 2020
Double-Post Thursday
Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Today's offerings include Korean Barbecue-Style Meatballs, Chicken Enchiladas, and Instant Pot® Hamburger Soup. Enjoy!
MEATLESS MEATBALLS IN MARINARA SAUCE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “These ‘meatballs’ use plant-based ground meat, and a combination of onions, garlic and tamari give them a satisfying chew and robust flavor. Because there’s no egg for binding, these are slightly more delicate than other meatballs, so use a light touch when shaping them, and make sure the mixture is very cold. Serve them on their own, covered in marinara sauce, or stuff them into hero rolls for sandwiches. They are also excellent over spaghetti.”
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 45 minutes, plus chilling
This was featured in “The Meat-Lover’s Guide to Eating Less Meat”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020740-meatless-meatballs-in-marinara-sauce.
Ingredients
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup minced onion
1/4 cup chopped parsley leaves and tender stems
3 garlic cloves, grated or minced
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 pounds plant-based vegan ground beef (such as Beyond Meat)
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
3 cups marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
Parmesan (optional, or use vegetarian Parmesan if you prefer), for garnish
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, onion, parsley, garlic, tamari, salt, pepper, oregano and red-pepper flakes, if using, and mix well. Add plant-based beef, and blend with your hands until well mixed. Cover mixture and chill for at least an hour or up to 24 hours. (It’s easiest to form the meatballs when the mixture is very cold.)
Heat the broiler. Form 28 meatballs, each about 1 1/4 inches in diameter. Transfer meatballs to one or two rimmed baking sheets, and drizzle with olive oil.
Broil meatballs until golden and firm, 7 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce in a pot. Serve meatballs with sauce on top, showered with cheese if you like and drizzled with a little more olive oil.
MAPLE & BROWN SUGAR OATMEAL WITH ORANGE, CRANBERRIES & ALMONDS
I somehow ended up on the Kroger emailing list, which is a little strange, considering that 1) there isn't a Kroger anywhere near me, and 2) I don't recall signing up for their emails. No matter…I did visit a Kroger once while visiting family in Knoxville, and will say that while it looks like there are maybe two Krogers in Florida, I wouldn't object to them spreading out, say, to Florida's west coast. (Hey, Kroger people, are you listening?)
For the record, I'd also love to see Wegmans here, too. While I've shopped at Publix for years, it'd be nice to have some competition from the aforementioned two grocery stores. I'll leave it at that…
Anywho, this recipe was in the Kroger emailing list and looked absolutely yummy. While I'm not a fan of instant oatmeal, and plan to use this recipe to come up with something similar using quick cook oats, I'll post it here as it does look good. (Keep in mind that when I tweak it, I'll post the new one, okay?)
Serves: 1; Prep time: 5 minutes; Total time: 5 minutes; Difficulty: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 package Quaker® Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal, prepared according to package directions
1/4 orange, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon dried cranberries
1 tablespoon sliced almonds
1 tablespoon orange zest, grated
Directions
Top oatmeal with orange, dried cranberries and sliced almonds. Garnish with orange zest.
PASTA BOLOGNESE
This is from Anne Burrell on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 45 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes; Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Intermediate
You can view this online at https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/anne-burrell/pasta-bolognese-recipe-1939315.
Ingredients
1 large onion or 2 small, cut into 1-inch dice
2 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch dice
3 ribs celery, cut into 1-inch dice
4 cloves garlic
Extra-virgin olive oil, for the pan
Kosher salt
3 pounds ground chuck, brisket or round or combination
2 cups tomato paste
3 cups hearty red wine
Water
3 bay leaves
1 bunch thyme, tied in a bundle
1 pound spaghetti
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
High quality extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing
Directions
In a food processor, puree onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into a coarse paste. In a large pan over medium heat, coat pan with oil. Add the pureed veggies and season generously with salt. Bring the pan to a medium-high heat and cook until all the water has evaporated and they become nice and brown, stirring frequently, about 15 to 20 minutes. Be patient, this is where the big flavors develop.
Add the ground beef and season again generously with salt. BROWN THE BEEF! Brown food tastes good. Don't rush this step. Cook another 15 to 20 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and cook until brown about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the red wine. Cook until the wine has reduced by half, another 4 to 5 minutes.
Add water to the pan until the water is about 1 inch above the meat. Toss in the bay leaves and the bundle of thyme and stir to combine everything. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. As the water evaporates you will gradually need to add more, about 2 to 3 cups at a time. Don't be shy about adding water during the cooking process, you can always cook it out. This is a game of reduce and add more water. This is where big rich flavors develop. If you try to add all the water in the beginning you will have boiled meat sauce rather than a rich, thick meaty sauce. Stir and TASTE frequently. Season with salt, if needed (you probably will). Simmer for 3 1/2 to 4 hours.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat to cook the spaghetti. Pasta water should ALWAYS be well salted. Salty as the ocean! TASTE IT! If your pasta water is under seasoned it doesn't matter how good your sauce is, your complete dish will always taste under seasoned. When the water is at a rolling boil add the spaghetti and cook for 1 minute less than it calls for on the package. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
While the pasta is cooking remove 1/2 of the ragu from the pot and reserve.
Drain the pasta and add to the pot with the remaining ragu. Stir or toss the pasta to coat with the sauce. Add some of the reserved sauce, if needed, to make it about an even ratio between pasta and sauce. Add the reserved pasta cooking water and cook the pasta and sauce together over a medium heat until the water has reduced. Turn off the heat and give a big sprinkle of Parmigiano and a generous drizzle of the high quality finishing olive oil. Toss or stir vigorously. Divide the pasta and sauce into serving bowls or 1 big pasta bowl. Top with remaining grated Parmigiano. Serve immediately.
INSTANT POT® HAMBURGER SOUP
This is from Angela Giannetti Snyder on AllRecipes. She wrote, "Easy and delicious soup with a nice thickness. You can make it in the Instant Pot® or on the stovetop. When this cools, it will be very thick, but it thins out when reheated. Freezes very well."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Makes: 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/268565/instant-pot-hamburger-soup/.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 (14.5 ounce) cans beef consomme
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
2 cups water
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
Campbell's® Condensed Tomato Soup
4 carrots, finely chopped
3 stalks celery, finely chopped
4 tablespoons pearl barley
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Directions
Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot(R)) and select Saute function. Cook and stir beef and onion until browned, 5 to 10 minutes. Pour in beef consomme, tomatoes, water, and tomato soup. Add carrots, celery, barley, thyme, and bay leaf.
Close and lock the lid. Select Soup function; set timer for 30 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
Release pressure using the natural-release method according to manufacturer's instructions, about 10 minutes.
Cook's Note:
If you're making it on the stovetop, brown ground beef and onion together, then add the remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer for at least 2 hours.
KOREAN BARBECUE-STYLE MEATBALLS
This yumminess is from Kay Chun in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Kay wrote, "These meatballs, inspired by traditional Korean barbecue, bring the savory-sweet flavors of caramelized meat without the need for a grill. As the meatballs bake, the soy sauce marries the garlic and scallions to create a glaze. This meatball mixture can be made ahead and left to marinate in the fridge for 3 hours or even overnight. Use ground beef that is 85 percent lean meat, 15 percent fat, or 80 percent lean and 20 percent fat for juicier meatballs. The Ritz crackers here make for a more tender meatball, but feel free to substitute plain dry bread crumbs. The meatballs are tasty on their own, but for a simple dipping sauce, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar. Serve over steamed rice with kimchi, or as a sandwich with mayonnaise or marinara sauce."
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 20 minutes
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019763-korean-barbecue-style-meatballs.
Ingredients
1/2 cup chopped scallions
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup finely crushed Ritz crackers (12 crackers)
1 pound ground beef (round or chuck)
Preparation
Heat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients and use your hands to gently mix.
Shape the meat into 12 golf-ball-size rounds (about 2 inches in diameter), and arrange on a greased rimmed baking sheet.
Bake until golden and cooked through, about 15 minutes. Serve warm.
Tips
Leftover meatballs freeze well and can be reheated in the oven at 375 degrees until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
To make the Ritz crumbs, place the crackers in a resealable plastic bag and lightly crush them with the back of a wooden spoon or measuring cup.
CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
This recipe is from Tyler Florence and was posted on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 1 hour; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Yield: 16 enchiladas, 8 servings; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 pounds skinless boneless chicken breast
Salt and pepper
2 teaspoons cumin powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon Mexican Spice Blend
1 red onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
5 canned whole green chiles, seeded and coarsely chopped
4 canned chipotle chiles, seeded and minced
1 (28-ounce) can stewed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon all-purpose flour
16 corn tortillas
1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce, canned
1 cup shredded Cheddar and Jack cheeses
Garnish: chopped cilantro leaves, chopped scallions, sour cream, chopped tomatoes
Ingredients
Coat large saute pan with oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown chicken over medium heat, allow 7 minutes each side or until no longer pink. Sprinkle chicken with cumin, garlic powder and Mexican spices before turning. Remove chicken to a platter, allow to cool.
Saute onion and garlic in chicken drippings until tender. Add corn and chiles. Stir well to combine. Add canned tomatoes, saute 1 minute.
Pull chicken breasts apart by hand into shredded strips. Add shredded chicken to saute pan, combine with vegetables. Dust the mixture with flour to help set.
Microwave tortillas on high for 30 seconds. This softens them and makes them more pliable. Coat the bottom of 2 (13 by 9-inch) pans with a ladle of enchilada sauce. Using a large shallow bowl, dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce to lightly coat. Spoon 1/4 cup chicken mixture in each tortilla. Fold over filling, place 8 enchiladas in each pan with seam side down. Top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.
Bake for 15 minutes in a preheated 350 degree F oven until cheese melts. Garnish with cilantro, scallion, sour cream and chopped tomatoes before serving. Serve with Spanish rice and beans.
MEATLESS MEATBALLS IN MARINARA SAUCE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “These ‘meatballs’ use plant-based ground meat, and a combination of onions, garlic and tamari give them a satisfying chew and robust flavor. Because there’s no egg for binding, these are slightly more delicate than other meatballs, so use a light touch when shaping them, and make sure the mixture is very cold. Serve them on their own, covered in marinara sauce, or stuff them into hero rolls for sandwiches. They are also excellent over spaghetti.”
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 45 minutes, plus chilling
This was featured in “The Meat-Lover’s Guide to Eating Less Meat”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020740-meatless-meatballs-in-marinara-sauce.
Ingredients
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup minced onion
1/4 cup chopped parsley leaves and tender stems
3 garlic cloves, grated or minced
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 pounds plant-based vegan ground beef (such as Beyond Meat)
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
3 cups marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
Parmesan (optional, or use vegetarian Parmesan if you prefer), for garnish
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, onion, parsley, garlic, tamari, salt, pepper, oregano and red-pepper flakes, if using, and mix well. Add plant-based beef, and blend with your hands until well mixed. Cover mixture and chill for at least an hour or up to 24 hours. (It’s easiest to form the meatballs when the mixture is very cold.)
Heat the broiler. Form 28 meatballs, each about 1 1/4 inches in diameter. Transfer meatballs to one or two rimmed baking sheets, and drizzle with olive oil.
Broil meatballs until golden and firm, 7 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce in a pot. Serve meatballs with sauce on top, showered with cheese if you like and drizzled with a little more olive oil.
MAPLE & BROWN SUGAR OATMEAL WITH ORANGE, CRANBERRIES & ALMONDS
I somehow ended up on the Kroger emailing list, which is a little strange, considering that 1) there isn't a Kroger anywhere near me, and 2) I don't recall signing up for their emails. No matter…I did visit a Kroger once while visiting family in Knoxville, and will say that while it looks like there are maybe two Krogers in Florida, I wouldn't object to them spreading out, say, to Florida's west coast. (Hey, Kroger people, are you listening?)
For the record, I'd also love to see Wegmans here, too. While I've shopped at Publix for years, it'd be nice to have some competition from the aforementioned two grocery stores. I'll leave it at that…
Anywho, this recipe was in the Kroger emailing list and looked absolutely yummy. While I'm not a fan of instant oatmeal, and plan to use this recipe to come up with something similar using quick cook oats, I'll post it here as it does look good. (Keep in mind that when I tweak it, I'll post the new one, okay?)
Serves: 1; Prep time: 5 minutes; Total time: 5 minutes; Difficulty: Easy
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 package Quaker® Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal, prepared according to package directions
1/4 orange, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon dried cranberries
1 tablespoon sliced almonds
1 tablespoon orange zest, grated
Directions
Top oatmeal with orange, dried cranberries and sliced almonds. Garnish with orange zest.
PASTA BOLOGNESE
This is from Anne Burrell on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 45 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes; Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Intermediate
You can view this online at https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/anne-burrell/pasta-bolognese-recipe-1939315.
Ingredients
1 large onion or 2 small, cut into 1-inch dice
2 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch dice
3 ribs celery, cut into 1-inch dice
4 cloves garlic
Extra-virgin olive oil, for the pan
Kosher salt
3 pounds ground chuck, brisket or round or combination
2 cups tomato paste
3 cups hearty red wine
Water
3 bay leaves
1 bunch thyme, tied in a bundle
1 pound spaghetti
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
High quality extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing
Directions
In a food processor, puree onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into a coarse paste. In a large pan over medium heat, coat pan with oil. Add the pureed veggies and season generously with salt. Bring the pan to a medium-high heat and cook until all the water has evaporated and they become nice and brown, stirring frequently, about 15 to 20 minutes. Be patient, this is where the big flavors develop.
Add the ground beef and season again generously with salt. BROWN THE BEEF! Brown food tastes good. Don't rush this step. Cook another 15 to 20 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and cook until brown about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the red wine. Cook until the wine has reduced by half, another 4 to 5 minutes.
Add water to the pan until the water is about 1 inch above the meat. Toss in the bay leaves and the bundle of thyme and stir to combine everything. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. As the water evaporates you will gradually need to add more, about 2 to 3 cups at a time. Don't be shy about adding water during the cooking process, you can always cook it out. This is a game of reduce and add more water. This is where big rich flavors develop. If you try to add all the water in the beginning you will have boiled meat sauce rather than a rich, thick meaty sauce. Stir and TASTE frequently. Season with salt, if needed (you probably will). Simmer for 3 1/2 to 4 hours.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat to cook the spaghetti. Pasta water should ALWAYS be well salted. Salty as the ocean! TASTE IT! If your pasta water is under seasoned it doesn't matter how good your sauce is, your complete dish will always taste under seasoned. When the water is at a rolling boil add the spaghetti and cook for 1 minute less than it calls for on the package. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
While the pasta is cooking remove 1/2 of the ragu from the pot and reserve.
Drain the pasta and add to the pot with the remaining ragu. Stir or toss the pasta to coat with the sauce. Add some of the reserved sauce, if needed, to make it about an even ratio between pasta and sauce. Add the reserved pasta cooking water and cook the pasta and sauce together over a medium heat until the water has reduced. Turn off the heat and give a big sprinkle of Parmigiano and a generous drizzle of the high quality finishing olive oil. Toss or stir vigorously. Divide the pasta and sauce into serving bowls or 1 big pasta bowl. Top with remaining grated Parmigiano. Serve immediately.
INSTANT POT® HAMBURGER SOUP
This is from Angela Giannetti Snyder on AllRecipes. She wrote, "Easy and delicious soup with a nice thickness. You can make it in the Instant Pot® or on the stovetop. When this cools, it will be very thick, but it thins out when reheated. Freezes very well."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Makes: 8 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/268565/instant-pot-hamburger-soup/.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 (14.5 ounce) cans beef consomme
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes
2 cups water
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
Campbell's® Condensed Tomato Soup
4 carrots, finely chopped
3 stalks celery, finely chopped
4 tablespoons pearl barley
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Directions
Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot(R)) and select Saute function. Cook and stir beef and onion until browned, 5 to 10 minutes. Pour in beef consomme, tomatoes, water, and tomato soup. Add carrots, celery, barley, thyme, and bay leaf.
Close and lock the lid. Select Soup function; set timer for 30 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
Release pressure using the natural-release method according to manufacturer's instructions, about 10 minutes.
Cook's Note:
If you're making it on the stovetop, brown ground beef and onion together, then add the remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer for at least 2 hours.
KOREAN BARBECUE-STYLE MEATBALLS
This yumminess is from Kay Chun in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Kay wrote, "These meatballs, inspired by traditional Korean barbecue, bring the savory-sweet flavors of caramelized meat without the need for a grill. As the meatballs bake, the soy sauce marries the garlic and scallions to create a glaze. This meatball mixture can be made ahead and left to marinate in the fridge for 3 hours or even overnight. Use ground beef that is 85 percent lean meat, 15 percent fat, or 80 percent lean and 20 percent fat for juicier meatballs. The Ritz crackers here make for a more tender meatball, but feel free to substitute plain dry bread crumbs. The meatballs are tasty on their own, but for a simple dipping sauce, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar. Serve over steamed rice with kimchi, or as a sandwich with mayonnaise or marinara sauce."
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 20 minutes
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019763-korean-barbecue-style-meatballs.
Ingredients
1/2 cup chopped scallions
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup finely crushed Ritz crackers (12 crackers)
1 pound ground beef (round or chuck)
Preparation
Heat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients and use your hands to gently mix.
Shape the meat into 12 golf-ball-size rounds (about 2 inches in diameter), and arrange on a greased rimmed baking sheet.
Bake until golden and cooked through, about 15 minutes. Serve warm.
Tips
Leftover meatballs freeze well and can be reheated in the oven at 375 degrees until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
To make the Ritz crumbs, place the crackers in a resealable plastic bag and lightly crush them with the back of a wooden spoon or measuring cup.
CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
This recipe is from Tyler Florence and was posted on the Food Network.
Prep Time: 1 hour; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Yield: 16 enchiladas, 8 servings; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 pounds skinless boneless chicken breast
Salt and pepper
2 teaspoons cumin powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon Mexican Spice Blend
1 red onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
5 canned whole green chiles, seeded and coarsely chopped
4 canned chipotle chiles, seeded and minced
1 (28-ounce) can stewed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon all-purpose flour
16 corn tortillas
1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce, canned
1 cup shredded Cheddar and Jack cheeses
Garnish: chopped cilantro leaves, chopped scallions, sour cream, chopped tomatoes
Ingredients
Coat large saute pan with oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown chicken over medium heat, allow 7 minutes each side or until no longer pink. Sprinkle chicken with cumin, garlic powder and Mexican spices before turning. Remove chicken to a platter, allow to cool.
Saute onion and garlic in chicken drippings until tender. Add corn and chiles. Stir well to combine. Add canned tomatoes, saute 1 minute.
Pull chicken breasts apart by hand into shredded strips. Add shredded chicken to saute pan, combine with vegetables. Dust the mixture with flour to help set.
Microwave tortillas on high for 30 seconds. This softens them and makes them more pliable. Coat the bottom of 2 (13 by 9-inch) pans with a ladle of enchilada sauce. Using a large shallow bowl, dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce to lightly coat. Spoon 1/4 cup chicken mixture in each tortilla. Fold over filling, place 8 enchiladas in each pan with seam side down. Top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.
Bake for 15 minutes in a preheated 350 degree F oven until cheese melts. Garnish with cilantro, scallion, sour cream and chopped tomatoes before serving. Serve with Spanish rice and beans.
Diabetic Thursday
It's time for another Diabetic Thursday, where we check out how healthy and yummy diabetic recieps can be. Today's yummy recipes include Asian Chicken and Slaw and a yummy Skillet Peanut Butter Cinnamon Spice Cookie. Enjoy!
BUFFALO TURKEY TACOS
Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings
Source: Jennie-O
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/buffalo-turkey-tacos.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Lean Ground Turkey
1/3 cup hot pepper wing sauce
8 hard corn taco shells, heated as specified on package
1 cup shredded lettuce
2 tomatoes, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
Directions
Cook turkey as specified on package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Add hot pepper sauce. Stir to combine.
Fill tacos shells with lettuce, turkey mixture, tomatoes and avocado.
Drizzle with blue cheese dressing.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 220; Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 260 mg; Cholesterol: 45 mg; Protein: 14 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Sugars: 1 g
SKILLET PEANUT BUTTER CINNAMON SPICE COOKIE
This comes from Rachael Hartley, RD, LD, CDE at VeryWellFit, and begins, “This decadent yet low-carb skillet peanut butter cinnamon spice cookie is the perfect treat for someone with diabetes. It takes less than ten minutes of prep time, has only five grams of sugar per serving, and is made with blood sugar lowering cinnamon. Most importantly, it’s delicious!”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 16.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 large egg
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup almond meal
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
Non-stick spray
2 tablespoons peanuts, optional, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, beat egg until slightly frothy. Whisk in the peanut butter, brown sugar, almond meal, vanilla extract, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt until well combined.
Spray an ovenproof skillet lightly with nonstick spray. Pour batter into the skillet and spread evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle the top with a few peanuts and press down slightly.
Place cookie on a rack set in the center of the oven and bake 10-12 minutes until puffed and golden around the edges. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
“This is one of my favorite treats to make because I always have the ingredients on hand! Whenever I’m craving something warm, gooey and sweet, I know this skillet cookie is only 20 minutes away.”
Nut Butters
Even in your pantry is looking bare, this recipe is easy to adapt based on what you have on hand. You can use any type of nut butter—cashew butter and almond butter both work well. And if you’re in the unfortunate situation of running out of nut butter, you can make your own by blending a rounded cup of nuts with a tablespoon of oil in the food processor until if forms a creamy spread.
Sweeteners
I made these with brown sugar, which has a richer flavor than white sugar, although you could certainly substitute it in a pinch. You could also use pure maple syrup or honey, but be sure to reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees and cook it a couple minutes longer to prevent burning.
Nut-Free Variation
If anyone in your household is nut free, you can still make this cookie—just swap in sesame butter and leave out the almond meal. Made with sunflower seeds, it’s perfect for those with tree nut allergies.
Vegan Variation
For a vegan version, use a chia seed egg. Mix 1 tablespoon chia seeds with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit to gel for about 10 minutes before mixing in the other ingredients.
This trick is a perfect one to remember next time you run out of eggs.
More Add-Ins
If you’re feeling extra decadent, load this cookie up with lots of healthy add-ins. In the mood for something chocolatey? Swap the almond flour for 1/4 cup cocoa powder, or stir in 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidant polyphenols and flavanols. Want something fruity? Stir in a handful of frozen berries. This recipe is especially delicious with frozen wild blueberries.
Make an extra nutty cookie with different kinds of nuts and seeds, like walnuts, sunflower seeds, and almonds. Add a handful or two of dried fruit along with those nuts to make a granola inspired cookie. My favorite way to enjoy this cookie is with a handful of shredded dried coconut and dark chocolate chips.
Cooking and Serving Tips
This cookie is best when it’s slightly undercooked. The center might not look fully done when you take it out, but it will continue cooking as it cools.
Be sure to use a nonstick or well seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent sticking.
MEXICAN TURKEY FRITTATA
Recipe Yield: Makes 9 servings
Source: Jennie-O
View online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mexican-turkey-frittata.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cups sliced small mushrooms
1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
3 cups egg substitute or 12 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup shredded low-fat Mexican blend cheese
1/3 cup sliced green onions
Directions
Heat oven to 350F.
Mist 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Sprinkle with cumin; stir to mix.
In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, green pepper, mushrooms and chipotle peppers.
Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are cooked.
In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro until well mixed.
Stir in turkey, cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions.
Spoon mixture into baking dish.
Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until set. Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.
Notes:
This flavorful egg and turkey frittata recipe will wake up your taste buds.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Protein: 24 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g; Sugars: 3 g
QUICK ITALIAN BEEF ROAST WITH ZUCCHINI AND TOMATOES
Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/quick-italian-beef-roast-with-zucchini-and-tomatoes.
Ingredients
1 beef Eye of Round Roast (2 pounds)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon pepper
3 medium zucchini, sliced (1/2-inch)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halves
Directions
Heat oven to 325F.
Combine salt, 1/2 teaspoon basil, oregano and pepper; press onto beef roast.
Place roast on rack in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so tip is centered in thickest part of beef. Do not add water or cover.
Roast in 325F oven 1-1/4 hours for medium rare doneness.
Remove roast when meat thermometer registers 135F.
Transfer to board; tent with foil. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10F to reach 145F for medium rare.)
Increase oven temperature to 425F.
Combine remaining ingredients, except tomatoes, in large bowl; toss. Place on rack in pan.
Roast in 425F oven 15 minutes or until tender. Add tomatoes; toss. Carve roast. Serve with vegetables.
Notes:
Rubs are an popular way to season a roast. Not only does it add flavor, but it creates a coat that helps seal in moisture and adds texture.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 244; Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 278 mg; Cholesterol: 86 mg; Protein: 35 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g
CHEESY CAULIFLOWER SOUP
Prep Time: 15 Minutes; Cost: $; Servings: 4; Difficulty Level: 2
Source: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes"
Book Title: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes”
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/cheesy-cauliflower-soup
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped green onion
4 cups chicken broth
2 packages (8 ounces each) fresh cauliflowerets
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups shredded pepper-Jack cheese (6 ounces)
1/4 cup roasted red peppers
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/4 teaspoon hot-pepper sauce
Directions
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add green onions and saute about 3 minutes or until tender. Add 3 cups broth; bring to boiling. Add cauliflowerets; return to boiling. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook about 6 minutes or until cauliflower is almost tender.
Whisk together flour and remaining 1 cup chicken broth in a small bowl. Stir into saucepan. Bring to boiling; cook, stirring occasionally, 2-3 minutes or until soup is thickened.
Remove soup from heat. Add cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in roasted red peppers, salt if using and hot-pepper sauce, breaking up red peppers with a wooden spoon.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 294; Fat: 15 g; Protein: 15 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 2 Medium-Fat Meat, 1 Fat
ASIAN CHICKEN AND SLAW
Recipe Yield: Servings: 4
Source: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes"
Book Title: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/asian-chicken-and-slaw.
Ingredients
1-1/4 pounds ground chicken
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions (including some green), finely chopped
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 can (8 ounces) water chestnuts, drained and chopped
2 tablespoons dark Asian sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 package (16 ounces) shredded coleslaw mix
1/4 cup beef broth
Directions
Combine chicken, 2 cloves garlic, green onions, 2 teaspoons ginger, half of water chestnuts, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, hoisin sauce, 3/4 teaspoon salt and pepper in a medium- size bowl. Shape into patties.
Heat remaining 2 teaspoons sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook 4 minutes per side or until internal temperature registers 165 degrees F on an instant thermometer. Remove to a serving platter and keep warm.
Add remaining garlic, water chestnuts, soy sauce and salt to skillet, along with coleslaw mix. Cook over medium-high heat 7 minutes. Add broth, cover and cook 3 minutes or until tender. Serve slaw alongside patties.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 344; Fat: 16 g; Sodium: 579 mg; Protein: 32 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Low-Fat Meat; 2 Fat
BUFFALO TURKEY TACOS
Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings
Source: Jennie-O
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/buffalo-turkey-tacos.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Lean Ground Turkey
1/3 cup hot pepper wing sauce
8 hard corn taco shells, heated as specified on package
1 cup shredded lettuce
2 tomatoes, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
Directions
Cook turkey as specified on package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Add hot pepper sauce. Stir to combine.
Fill tacos shells with lettuce, turkey mixture, tomatoes and avocado.
Drizzle with blue cheese dressing.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 220; Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 260 mg; Cholesterol: 45 mg; Protein: 14 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Sugars: 1 g
SKILLET PEANUT BUTTER CINNAMON SPICE COOKIE
This comes from Rachael Hartley, RD, LD, CDE at VeryWellFit, and begins, “This decadent yet low-carb skillet peanut butter cinnamon spice cookie is the perfect treat for someone with diabetes. It takes less than ten minutes of prep time, has only five grams of sugar per serving, and is made with blood sugar lowering cinnamon. Most importantly, it’s delicious!”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 16.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 large egg
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup almond meal
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
Non-stick spray
2 tablespoons peanuts, optional, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, beat egg until slightly frothy. Whisk in the peanut butter, brown sugar, almond meal, vanilla extract, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt until well combined.
Spray an ovenproof skillet lightly with nonstick spray. Pour batter into the skillet and spread evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle the top with a few peanuts and press down slightly.
Place cookie on a rack set in the center of the oven and bake 10-12 minutes until puffed and golden around the edges. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
“This is one of my favorite treats to make because I always have the ingredients on hand! Whenever I’m craving something warm, gooey and sweet, I know this skillet cookie is only 20 minutes away.”
Nut Butters
Even in your pantry is looking bare, this recipe is easy to adapt based on what you have on hand. You can use any type of nut butter—cashew butter and almond butter both work well. And if you’re in the unfortunate situation of running out of nut butter, you can make your own by blending a rounded cup of nuts with a tablespoon of oil in the food processor until if forms a creamy spread.
Sweeteners
I made these with brown sugar, which has a richer flavor than white sugar, although you could certainly substitute it in a pinch. You could also use pure maple syrup or honey, but be sure to reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees and cook it a couple minutes longer to prevent burning.
Nut-Free Variation
If anyone in your household is nut free, you can still make this cookie—just swap in sesame butter and leave out the almond meal. Made with sunflower seeds, it’s perfect for those with tree nut allergies.
Vegan Variation
For a vegan version, use a chia seed egg. Mix 1 tablespoon chia seeds with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit to gel for about 10 minutes before mixing in the other ingredients.
This trick is a perfect one to remember next time you run out of eggs.
More Add-Ins
If you’re feeling extra decadent, load this cookie up with lots of healthy add-ins. In the mood for something chocolatey? Swap the almond flour for 1/4 cup cocoa powder, or stir in 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidant polyphenols and flavanols. Want something fruity? Stir in a handful of frozen berries. This recipe is especially delicious with frozen wild blueberries.
Make an extra nutty cookie with different kinds of nuts and seeds, like walnuts, sunflower seeds, and almonds. Add a handful or two of dried fruit along with those nuts to make a granola inspired cookie. My favorite way to enjoy this cookie is with a handful of shredded dried coconut and dark chocolate chips.
Cooking and Serving Tips
This cookie is best when it’s slightly undercooked. The center might not look fully done when you take it out, but it will continue cooking as it cools.
Be sure to use a nonstick or well seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent sticking.
MEXICAN TURKEY FRITTATA
Recipe Yield: Makes 9 servings
Source: Jennie-O
View online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mexican-turkey-frittata.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cups sliced small mushrooms
1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
3 cups egg substitute or 12 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup shredded low-fat Mexican blend cheese
1/3 cup sliced green onions
Directions
Heat oven to 350F.
Mist 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.
Sprinkle with cumin; stir to mix.
In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, green pepper, mushrooms and chipotle peppers.
Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are cooked.
In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro until well mixed.
Stir in turkey, cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions.
Spoon mixture into baking dish.
Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until set. Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.
Notes:
This flavorful egg and turkey frittata recipe will wake up your taste buds.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Protein: 24 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g; Sugars: 3 g
QUICK ITALIAN BEEF ROAST WITH ZUCCHINI AND TOMATOES
Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings
Source: TBC
Recipe and photo appears courtesy of Cattlemen's Beef Promotion Board.
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/quick-italian-beef-roast-with-zucchini-and-tomatoes.
Ingredients
1 beef Eye of Round Roast (2 pounds)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon pepper
3 medium zucchini, sliced (1/2-inch)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halves
Directions
Heat oven to 325F.
Combine salt, 1/2 teaspoon basil, oregano and pepper; press onto beef roast.
Place roast on rack in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so tip is centered in thickest part of beef. Do not add water or cover.
Roast in 325F oven 1-1/4 hours for medium rare doneness.
Remove roast when meat thermometer registers 135F.
Transfer to board; tent with foil. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10F to reach 145F for medium rare.)
Increase oven temperature to 425F.
Combine remaining ingredients, except tomatoes, in large bowl; toss. Place on rack in pan.
Roast in 425F oven 15 minutes or until tender. Add tomatoes; toss. Carve roast. Serve with vegetables.
Notes:
Rubs are an popular way to season a roast. Not only does it add flavor, but it creates a coat that helps seal in moisture and adds texture.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 244; Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 278 mg; Cholesterol: 86 mg; Protein: 35 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g
CHEESY CAULIFLOWER SOUP
Prep Time: 15 Minutes; Cost: $; Servings: 4; Difficulty Level: 2
Source: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes"
Book Title: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes”
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/cheesy-cauliflower-soup
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped green onion
4 cups chicken broth
2 packages (8 ounces each) fresh cauliflowerets
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups shredded pepper-Jack cheese (6 ounces)
1/4 cup roasted red peppers
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/4 teaspoon hot-pepper sauce
Directions
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add green onions and saute about 3 minutes or until tender. Add 3 cups broth; bring to boiling. Add cauliflowerets; return to boiling. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook about 6 minutes or until cauliflower is almost tender.
Whisk together flour and remaining 1 cup chicken broth in a small bowl. Stir into saucepan. Bring to boiling; cook, stirring occasionally, 2-3 minutes or until soup is thickened.
Remove soup from heat. Add cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in roasted red peppers, salt if using and hot-pepper sauce, breaking up red peppers with a wooden spoon.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 294; Fat: 15 g; Protein: 15 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 2 Medium-Fat Meat, 1 Fat
ASIAN CHICKEN AND SLAW
Recipe Yield: Servings: 4
Source: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes"
Book Title: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/asian-chicken-and-slaw.
Ingredients
1-1/4 pounds ground chicken
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions (including some green), finely chopped
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 can (8 ounces) water chestnuts, drained and chopped
2 tablespoons dark Asian sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 package (16 ounces) shredded coleslaw mix
1/4 cup beef broth
Directions
Combine chicken, 2 cloves garlic, green onions, 2 teaspoons ginger, half of water chestnuts, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, hoisin sauce, 3/4 teaspoon salt and pepper in a medium- size bowl. Shape into patties.
Heat remaining 2 teaspoons sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook 4 minutes per side or until internal temperature registers 165 degrees F on an instant thermometer. Remove to a serving platter and keep warm.
Add remaining garlic, water chestnuts, soy sauce and salt to skillet, along with coleslaw mix. Cook over medium-high heat 7 minutes. Add broth, cover and cook 3 minutes or until tender. Serve slaw alongside patties.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 344; Fat: 16 g; Sodium: 579 mg; Protein: 32 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Low-Fat Meat; 2 Fat
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